merino travel tech

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How to Make the Most of

Merino Wool Travel Clothing

A guide to the special qualities and needs of the travel “super fabric.”

• 01. Introduction
• 02. Clothing
• 04. Conclusion

There are many fabrics you could choose for travel clothing, but this is one of the best.

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What is Merino Wool Fabric?

Packing for a trip can be such a chore and requires some tough decisions. You have eight of your best travel shirts, but only have room for four. You may not know when and where you’ll be able to do laundry on your journey—and that’s the fun & spontaneity of travel! Do you bring more clothes to last longer between washes or less and just say screw it? If you’re hitting up snowy mountains and balmy beaches in one trip, do you try to pack clothes for all seasons and end up with a huge, overweight bag?

Well, Merino wool can solve a lot of your packing problems. It is one of the best travel fabrics out there, straight up. Packing one Merino wool t shirt is like the equivalent of packing five cotton tees when it comes to freshness. It will keep you cool in the heat, warm in the cold, you don’t have to wash it every time you wear it and we almost guarantee it will become your best travel shirt—so you’ll only need a few. It’s going to cost you a pretty penny for the better brands, but the benefits of the material are worth it… if you take care of it correctly.

History of Merino Wool

Merino wool sheep were first bred in Spain and introduced to Australia in 1797. Fibers of the sheep became even finer when Australian farmers continued to perfect the quality with selective breeding. But wool’s big break in the fashion world didn’t come until the 1920’s when Coco Chanel produced a dress out of fine wool jersey. Today, designers and woolgrowers work together to connect consumers with the natural benefits of this awesome fabric.

Fun fact: The first wool sweaters date back to 230AD according to radiocarbon testing, making it one of the oldest materials still used today!

Video Guide Part 1: Intro – Why Merino Wool?

Feel free to watch this guide section in video format. We’ll keep the written content on this page up to date.

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Benefits of Merino Wool: Some of the Best Travel Clothing Available

Soft and Comfortable

You’re thinking “wool, ugh that’s itchy.” Wrong! Merino wool is the finest wool fiber there is, making it way better than that sweater your grandma knitted you for your birthday. It’s also hypoallergenic so you likely won’t have any skin reactions at all. AND it’s naturally static resistant.

Natural Antimicrobial Properties

Antimicrobial is a fancy way of saying Merino wool prevents odor-causing bacteria from growing due to its awesome moisture control. Meaning: *drum roll…* you don’t have to wash it as often! But how does this work? Well, keep reading…

Quick Drying and Sweat-Wicking

Merino wool can absorb and retain up to 30% of its weight in moisture and still feel dry to the touch. Since the fabric wicks away moisture, those smelly bacteria don’t have the moist environment they need to thrive. Wear your Merino wool t shirt in the desert, on the slopes, or in the gym and you’ll be sure to remain dry and stink-free. Well, your clothes will anyway…you should still shower.

Warm in Cool Weather and Cool in Hot Weather

Those sheep know what’s good. Scientifically, Merino wool is awesome at temperature regulation because of its fiber construction. There’s an outer layer and an inner layer to the fabric. The outer is hydrophobic (water-repelling), and the inner is hydrophilic (water-absorbing). The inner layer absorbs your sweat, leaving you cool and dry, while the outer layer repels moisture, leaving you warm and toasty in colder climates.

Natural Elasticity

If taken care of properly (which we’ll cover in another section of this guide), your products won’t stretch out or lose their shape! Due to the natural crimp in the fiber, it can be stretched 30,000 times without being damaged, apparently. We haven’t tested this out ourselves, but maybe we can get an intern on it or something.

Natural Sun Protection

Merino wool has a natural UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) of 40+ to protect your skin from those killer cancer-causing rays we all love so much. A UPF of 40 means the product will block ~97% of UV rays from reaching your skin AND you can use less of that chemical-laden sunblock. Believe it or not, polyester has roughly the same UV protection, but a lightweight cotton T-shirt has a UPF 5, blocking around 20% of the rays.

Biodegradable

Nothing lasts forever, but when your clothing is ready to retire, sleep easy knowing that your merino wool products won’t be sitting in a landfill for too long. Because the fiber is made of keratin—which is the same protein our hair and skin is composed of—it will disintegrate back into the earth within 1-5 years. Synthetic fibers, like nylon, take 30-40 years to degrade. Yikes.

Merino Wool vs Regular Wool

The major difference here is that Merino wool is much softer than regular wool. Regular wool is what your mind recalls as itchy, and we’re here to change that stigma. Merino is totally different in the “touchy feely” category because its fibers are much finer than those of regular wool producing sheep. Both varieties share the epically awesome benefits of wicking, quick drying, elasticity and moisture control though.

Fun fact: most Merino sheep live in Australia and New Zealand.

Merino Wool vs Cotton

Besides the obvious that wool comes from an animal and cotton from a plant, there are several differences between these two popular fabric choices. Merino wool has great heat retention, where cotton is more breathable. Cotton might be a great option for the summer, but it will absorb all your sweat leaving you wet and smelly. Merino, on the other hand, will wick away your sweat creating your own wearable A/C system. Due to the antimicrobial properties of the fabric, you can wash it less often than cotton. Unless you’d like to spend your travels at the laundromat waiting for clothing to dry, we’ll call this a benefit.

Merino Wool vs Synthetic Fabric

There are a lot of great arguments over whether Merino wool or synthetic materials are better suited for base layers. One could argue that synthetic fabrics dry faster, which would definitely help if you’re an overly sweaty person. It’s also cheaper than wool and easier to care for, but we don’t think those minor benefits outweigh the massive pros of Merino wool. It is a natural fiber—AKA, when you’re done with it, it will decompose in a landfill pretty quickly. After you toss your synthetics, they’ll sit in that dump for 30-40 years before decomposing. Merino will also keep you warmer than synthetics, it’s usually softer to the touch, and it retains less odor allowing you to wear each piece of clothing more between washes. In the end, it really comes down to your personal preference though (we won’t judge).

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This magic fabric covers all your basics, from t-shirts to socks and everything in between.

Merino Wool Clothing For Travel

You’d be surprised at all of the common products made of Merino wool—we certainly were. Also, the brands you choose to go with do make a difference, as many companies use different grades & weaves of the fabric. The best Merino wool clothing can last for years while the lowest quality will only last a matter of months.

Video Guide Part 2: Merino Products

Merino Wool T-Shirts

Packing Merino wool t shirts can save space in your bag and save you a lot of laundry time. Plus, they’re so soft you’ll want to wear them all the time. Seriously, these are the best travel shirts. We recommend having at least two, but probably no more than four for longer-term travel. If you have two of these shirts, it will give you the option to leave one hanging out to dry at your hotel, hostel, or AirBnB while you’re out exploring and wearing the other one. It is also worth considering getting darker colored tees. We’ve found dark colors make for the best travel shirts because you can wash them less—they won’t pick up dirt or sweat stains as easily. When purchasing, take a look at the fabric thickness, usually indicated by “gsm” or “g/m²” (Grams Per Square Meter). Most companies will have a lighter weight version that’s optimal for warmer climates but if you want more durability or you’re in a colder climate, thicker is better. Most Merino wool t shirts are rated between 150gsm and 190gsm. Remember, Merino wool will regulate your body temperature in both hot and cold situations.

We’ve tested this tee with over 200 wears during a year and a half of use and still love it. The fit is very modern and it always looks sharp. Its magical properties keep you warm in the cold and cool in the heat, though the price tag is a bit hefty.

The durability isn’t quite as high with Woolly products, but the price tag is easier to digest if you’re new to this fabric.

The material feels a tad thicker than our other two picks, however, it’s a solid shirt with some good durability.

Merino Wool Buff

What’s a buff? It’s headwear that you need to have! You can wear a buff many different ways, from a hat, a scarf, a headband, a face mask—basically, it can be whatever you need it to be. It’s lightweight and the Merino fibers provide a good warmth to weight ratio. Carrying one Merino wool buff is way more practical than packing a bulky knit scarf that will eventually smell and falls on the floor every time you hang it on the back of your dinner chair. The quick-drying properties come in especially handy with a buff, ensuring that your face and head stay dry and warm.

Using a Merino Wool Buff

With one tube-shaped piece of Merino wool the possibilities are endless! This buff is great for travel packing because of its versatility, it’s quick drying properties, and it doesn’t retain odors. It also blocks 95% of UV rays. Bonus points for this brand because the buff is seamless which eliminates those irritating hems and seams that typically rub against your skin.

Merino Wool Underwear

When you see wool underwear, you probably automatically think, “No way in hell would I intentionally put something itchy down there.” We’re here to tell you that Merino wool underwear is not the least bit itchy. It’s actually super comfortable & soft. The wool is naturally antimicrobial and anti-stink, which means you can wear them multiple times before washing—that is if you can mentally handle the idea of re-wearing your underwear, and not just because you turned it inside out. The quick drying nature will keep you from feeling everyone’s least favorite word, moist. *Shudder* We recommend bringing 2-4 pairs with you: two if you’re feeling adventurous. Four is more the norm if you don’t want to do laundry often, plus since underwear is small it’s easy to pack more.

The Dailys Boxer Brief are super soft. Like really, really soft. They are form fitting and don’t bunch up, which is obviously awesome. The only problem is they get shredded up after 9 months. We got a solid 75 wears out of them, but we’re still searching for the perfect pair!

Merino Wool Socks

Everyone has been in a situation where your feet are super sweaty throughout the day and when you finally take your shoes off your socks are soaked and smelly. Not the case with Merino wool socks because they will regulate your foot temperature with Merino’s natural moisture control. But wait, there’s more! Like all other products in this category, they are antimicrobial and anti-stink so you can wear them a couple times between washes if needed. Merino wool socks can be durable AF, depending on the brand. It’s important to look for a blend of wool and lycra, spandex, or nylon. If there is too much wool, they won’t be durable or form fitting to your feet.

A little thicker than other socks, they’re still a good fit on the foot and inside your shoe. Darn Tough offers an amazing warranty as well—yes, a warranty on socks! If these socks aren’t the most comfortable, durable and best fitting socks you’ve owned you can return them with no questions. Though, we assure you they are extremely durable and definitely worth the purchase.

Merino Wool Button-Down Shirts

It’s good to look presentable every now and then while traveling, right? Whether you’re trying to look decent for the customs agent, headed to a nice dinner, or wanting to look sharp on the road while interviewing for a remote gig—a button down can give you a bit more of a polished look than a simple t-shirt. Whoever you’re trying to impress doesn’t need to know you’ve hardly ever washed it either.

Wool & Prince offers a pretty great selection of Merino wool button-downs. They’re slightly itchy and take a bit to break in at first, but once everything is locked in, their button-downs are a great companion to have on the road.

Merino Wool Workout-Focused Clothing and Gear

Whether its a tank top, t-shirt or runners, this magical fabric is actually perfect for working out because it’s quick drying, sweat-wicking, anti-odor and it regulates your temperature. Plus, you can usually get away with wearing your Merino “gym clothes” as “regular clothes,” unlike a lot of the sporty-looking synthetic garments out there. If you’re in a pinch, you can air dry your gear before putting them back in your bag, which will help prevent the onset of smells even longer. While you can go a few wears between washes with this workout gear, like any other material, the more you sweat the faster the clothes will smell regardless of the antimicrobial properties.

The thin fabric of the Icebreaker Merino Anatomica Tank is ideal for compression in your bag. Be sure to air dry it if you’re in a hurry after a workout to help get any smells out. It’s easy to wash in the sink and it’s quick drying. To add some durability, the tank is a blend of 83% Merino wool, 12% nylon and 5% lycra. The price tag is decently high, but worth it if you’re cramming everything into a small bag. One of the only cons of this tank is that the tag washes out after some time, making it hard to tell which way to put it on.

Merino Wool For Women

There are a decent amount of Merino wool products out there, but it seems the market is mostly geared towards menswear at the moment. Don’t get us wrong, there are definitely garments for women, but the pickings are a little slim. In our research, we’ve found that most Merino womenswear is designed as tight fitting workout clothing or frumpy cardigans. Just because you’re traveling doesn’t mean you should forgo your personal style, and we just haven’t found anything we love in that department yet. However, there are certainly no rules stopping women from buying the men’s products and reaping those benefits too. We’ll be sure to update this guide as we learn about new products.

UPDATE: Around the time of the initial publishing of this guide, Woolly has launched an entire women-focused line ! We haven’t had a chance to test or review any of their women’s merino wool clothing yet though.

Caring for wool may seem daunting, but we promise it's not.

How To Care For Merino Wool

Disclaimer: This guide will work for most Merino wool garments, but be sure to check with your individual brand’s care instructions first and foremost.

So now you know why this magical fabric is worth the extra bucks. But do you know how to make it last?

The first thing you should know is that because of its antimicrobial properties, you can actually wash Merino wool LESS than all your other clothes. Think about it, what’s the number one reason you do laundry? So your sh*t don’t stink right?

But how often is “not often?” You have to use your personal judgement and what you feel comfortable with based on how much you sweat and how much you enjoy doing laundry when you’re traveling the world. Generally, we suggest washing Merino wool t-shirts every 10-20 wears and, no judgement, underwear every 5-10 wears. Other people say we could go even longer! If that grosses you out, we won’t be offended, so feel free to wash more frequently, but know that the lifecycle of the product just might be cut short the more you submerge it in soap.

Video Guide Part 3: Caring for Merino Wool

How To Wash

Every brand and individual product will have its own care instructions, but we’ve done the research on some of the best practices to use based on your label. But who knows how to actually read those labels? Sometimes it looks like a picture book of how to cook ramen noodles without a stove.

In all seriousness, those symbols are important. Mess up the instructions and your shirt might be fit for your niece’s doll or your dog. There goes that $100 investment. Take our advice and try to learn the true meaning of some of the laundry symbols , which will help your wool products—and all your garments—live their best life.

On to the Washing

When you’re traveling, battling a language barrier at the laundromat while trying to explain how you want your washing done can be unnecessarily stressful and potentially costly if you’re not familiar with the native language.

Following these simple steps will usually do the trick for your handwashables and even those labeled machine wash.

Hand-washing Darn Tough Merino Wool Socks

• Turn your garments inside out—this will help retain that “new look” for as long as possible.
• Soak and swish in the sink for a minute with tepid water and a neutral soap. A neutral soap is anything with a pH balance of 7, which is the same pH as water. Fabric softeners and bleach are always a no no! The softeners coat the fibers and reduce its ability to naturally regulate temperature and moisture. See our soap suggestions below.
• Let the garments soak for 15 minutes. Afterwords, you can run the item under some water for a quick rinse, but it’s not entirely necessary due to the crimping of the fabric fibers (the soap doesn’t penetrate all the way through).
• Lay pieces flat to dry. Hanging will cause your clothes to stretch in weird areas from the weight of the water. You should also store the garments folded up to help maintain the shape.

All About the Suds

Carrying soap with you can take up valuable real estate in your travel backpack or luggage. There are a variety of products from shampoo bars to wool specific cleaners that you can use at home or on the go.

Multipurpose Soaps

These products are awesome because you can bring only one thing and use it for your hair, body, clothes and even the dishes if you’re in a pinch. When traveling, liquids and space are a premium, so we prefer this option when on the road.

A tiny bar of soap & shampoo that lasts much longer than typical liquid soaps, the LUSH Shampoo Bar proves to be a great TSA-approved option for travel and it’s natural ingredients make it safe to use on wool.

This soap is also plant-based, so it’s 100% laundry friendly and doubles as shampoo & soap on the road.

Specialized Soaps for Merino Wool

Dedicated products to prolonging the life of your wool, these might be better left at home if you’re sticking with one bag travel or trying to conserve weight. If you really love keeping your clothing at their freshest, there’s no reason you couldn’t take some in a 3oz GoToob or small liquid container.

Granger’s Merino Wash is specifically made for Merino wool and has a nice, natural cedar-like scent.

Kookaburra Original Wash is specifically made for Merino Wool and works for hand washing and machine washing clothes.

Eucalan fine fabrics wash comes in eucalyptus, grapefruit, jasmine, lavender and natural scents.

Don’t have any soap with you? No problem. Any soap with a more neutral pH level will be great on the fabric. Dish soap, for instance, has a pH level around 7 (which is around the same as drinking water). Bleach is somewhere between 11–13 in pH level, so avoid at all costs!

Prefer a powdered detergent? These are fine to use, but it’s best to pre-dissolve the detergent prior to adding your clothes. This will help prevent concentrated specks of detergent from coming into contact with the wool, potentially causing holes and harm.

Removing Pilling from Merino Wool

If you’ve ever owned an item-of-clothing for more than five minutes (okay—a couple of months), then you probably know that pilling is basically inevitable. And, as magical as merino wool is, it can’t escape this fate either. Luckily, the process of removing pilling from merino is fairly straightforward. Probably the easiest way to do it is with an electric sweater shaver like the House of Wonderful Wonder Lint Sweater Shaver , which removes pilling with superhero-esque speed.

But, if you’re traveling, you’re not going to want to lug around an electric shaver with you (unless you’re way into fabric shaving?), so we suggest picking up a sweater comb designed specifically to keep wool looking sharp. Ours is from the brand Comfy Clothiers, but any will do. All you have to do is lay your garment flat and then “comb” it, using small, precise movements. The metal teeth of the comb, which feel more sandpapery than anything, will pick up the pilling. After a few, focused minutes, your garment will look as good as new.

Protecting Merino Wool from Bugs and Pests

Place cedar chips or lavender oil in your bags. This will keep the critters away plus keep your entire pack or luggage smelling fresh.

• When storing your clothes for long periods of time, seal them in a plastic bag or container to keep the bugs out
• Think you’ve already been invaded? Place your garments in a plastic bag and in the freezer for 24-48 hours. This will kill any moths or larvae living in the fabric.

Merino Wool and Deodorant

In our testing, we’ve found that ordinary deodorants seem to perform just fine with Merino Wool. The main issue comes when you start using a deodorant with antiperspirant in it. Antiperspirant can really make a mess of Merino, and sort of goes against the main benefit of it—wearing many times between washes! Just avoid the antiperspirant and you should be good to go.

That's about all you need to know about this magical fabric. The next step is trying it yourself if you haven't yet!

Merino Wool: Making Your Travels So Much More Enjoyable

If we haven’t convinced you by now that Merino wool is one of the best travel fabrics out there, then there isn’t much left to say other than to go test it for yourself. While the price point is on the high side for these products, the benefits that the material has to offer seriously make the purchase a worthwhile investment.

From t-shirts and sweaters to underwear and socks, Merino wool is soft, naturally breathable and super comfortable. No itching or scratching with this wool! It’s one of the only fabrics that is naturally antimicrobial, resists odors, wicks moisture AND keeps you warm in the cold and cool in the heat.

With careful care of your Merino wool—and selecting the right brands—your products should survive hundreds of wears, retain their shape, and save you time on laundry no matter where you’re adventuring. New products are constantly being introduced to the market and we’ve only shared a few of our favorites with you that have stood the test of time in our bags. We will continue to explore and update you as products change and improve.

The bottom line of whether or not it’s worth the extra dough is completely up to you. But if you’re a serious minimalist traveler that dislikes frequent trips to the laundromat—Merino will help you travel lighter & faster.

Author: Pack Hacker Team

We find and test the best gear for travel based on form, function and aesthetic. We believe the best trips start with quality gear, regardless if you’re traveling for business or pleasure.

Merino Wool Clothing for Travel: A Guide to Choosing the Best Brands

Last Updated: March 29, 2024

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You need a travel wardrobe that can keep up with your adventures. And believe it or not, merino wool is your ticket. In this article, we’ll delve into the advantages of merino wool clothing for travel and emphasize the importance of selecting the right brand. 

I am writing this during a three-month carry-on only trip through Europe in summer. I have a travel capsule wardrobe made of only merino wool . Why on earth would I bring nothing but merino wool clothes to Europe in summer? Read on. 

Stay tuned for the secrets to staying comfortable, stylish, and prepared for any travel adventure that comes your way.

Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means if you click through and make a purchase I’ll get a commission. This in no way affects your price, and it helps me to keep this site running and new content coming your way. Thank you in advance for your support! 

At a glance: My Top Picks for Merino Wool Travel Clothing

UNISEX: Unbound Merino – Super-fine (aka super soft) wool, sustainable brand, nice balance between fashion & function.

WOMEN: Wool& – Huge selection of fashionable clothes, creative fabric compositions such that you wouldn’t even know it’s merino!

MEN: Wool & Prince – Men’s counterpart to Wool& (above). Great selection for an entire merino wool travel wardrobe that behaves like canvas, denim, linen, and more.

The Basics of Merino Wool

Merino wool is a natural fiber that comes from the Merino sheep, a breed known for its exceptionally soft and fine wool. This is one of the key characteristics that sets it apart from other types of wool and makes it incredibly soft to the touch, resulting in a comfortable and itch-free fabric that is gentle on the skin.

In addition to its softness, merino wool is highly breathable, which helps regulate body temperature and prevent overheating. Merino wool benefits also include natural moisture-wicking capabilities, drawing sweat away from the skin to keep you feeling dry and fresh in hot weather. It also has impressive odor-resistant and anti-bacterial properties due to the presence of lanolin, which gives merino wool garments the ability to stay fresh for longer periods without needing frequent washing.

Merino wool can also be considerably more lightweight and less bulky than other types of wool, making it easier to pack and suitable for both hot and cold weather (depending on the weight of the piece of clothing, which we’ll get into later). Its natural elasticity also makes it more durable and resistant to wrinkling.

Why Merino Wool Clothing is Perfect for Travel

As you can probably tell from the merino wool basics listed above, it’s great for home use and outdoor adventures, and also for travel. Here’s why merino wool for travel is the way to go: 

• When cotton gets wet (from sweat or rain or whatever), it can’t keep you warm – in fact, it lowers your core temperature. Merino wool still keeps you warm, even when wet.  
• Merino wool is anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, and thus odor-resistant. Antimicrobial shirts are like magic. You can wear your merino tee for an entire week (or longer) without smelling. This means you don’t need to wash it as much, which makes it easier to care for on the road.  
• It’s soft and delightful to the touch . 
• It’s moisture-wicking and breathable . 
• It regulates your body temperature . A relatively light weight merino wool shirt can still keep you warm, and also cool. (Magic). 
• It’s easy to care for . Hand wash or machine wash on cold, hang to dry overnight. Done. 
• It lasts forever . 
• It’s better for the environment . Some synthetic materials that have similar warmth and moisture-wicking properties also contribute to micro-plastic pollution. 

Merino Wool Terminology Explained

When you start shopping for merino wool clothing, you’ll see a lot of lingo. It’s important to understand this lingo so you can ensure you’re getting the right clothing for your needs. 

Two key terms are GSM and microns , which provide insights into the fabric’s characteristics and performance.

GSM, or grams per square meter, is a measurement of fabric weight and thickness.  

It tells you how warm and breathable a merino wool garment will be. A higher GSM value indicates a denser, warmer fabric, while a lower GSM corresponds to a lighter, more breathable material. When choosing merino wool clothing, consider the climate and activities you’ll be engaged in to select the appropriate GSM for your needs.

Microns refer to the diameter of individual wool fibers , with a lower micron count indicating finer and softer wool. Lower micron counts often come with a higher price tag due to the superior quality of the wool used.

Other terms

In addition to GSM and microns, other relevant merino wool terminology includes anti-pilling treatments and UPF ratings . 

Anti-pilling treatments help prevent fabric balls from forming on the fabric’s surface, which can be an annoying byproduct of many wool garments that makes them look older and more worn than they actually are. 

UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) ratings indicate the level of sun protection provided by the fabric, which can be important for outdoor activities. 

It’s also worth noting the concept of “mulesing-free,” which indicates that the wool used comes from sheep that have not undergone the controversial practice of mulesing; a treatment of the sheep that involves a painful procedure to remove problematic skin around the buttocks. 

How to Choose the Best Merino Wool Clothing for Your Needs

Here are some key factors to consider when selecting merino wool clothing for travel:

Purpose 

Determine the purpose of your merino wool clothing. Are you looking for base layers to provide insulation and moisture-wicking properties? Or do you need versatile garments that can be worn in different weather conditions and for various activities? Identifying your specific needs will help you narrow down your options.

Climate and Weather

Consider the climate and weather conditions of your travel destinations. Merino wool offers excellent temperature regulation, keeping you warm in cold environments and cool in warmer climates. Choose the appropriate weight and thickness (measured in GSM and microns) based on the anticipated weather conditions.

Style and Design

Once upon a time, merino wool clothes were utilitarian and mostly used as base layers and activewear. Now it comes in a wide range of styles and designs. Determine the type of clothing you require, such as shirts, pants, socks, or accessories, based on your travel activities and personal preferences. Additionally, consider the fit, cut, and features that enhance comfort and functionality. 

You will see a huge variety of merino wool clothing companies profiled below. Each has their own style. Not into athletic clothing? Then don’t buy a bunch of it just because you think it’s practical for travel! Find a brand that suits your style – and perhaps also the style requirements of your trip and also your destination; for example, Europe generally demands an elevated sense of style. Check out my video about Europe packing tips and mistakes for more on this.

Durability and Quality

Not all merino clothing brands are equal. Look for reputable brands known for their craftsmanship and use of high-quality materials. Consider factors like the fabric’s density, stitching, and overall construction to ensure that your clothing will withstand the rigors of travel.

Fabric Composition

Not all merino clothing is 100% merino wool, and that’s okay. Incorporating other materials can change how the fabric behaves, which might be important. For example, a pair of leggings may need some nylon and spandex to help them retain their form and resist stretching out and pilling. By strategically including other natural fibers, merino wool clothing can behave like jersey, linen, terry, and even tweed and denim. 

Beware, however, of “merino” clothing that has very little actual merino wool in it. I once saw a shirt marketed as being merino, but when I looked at the composition, it only had 10% merino wool. Wool& is a company that has one of the best selections of fabric composition that I’ve ever seen; you can even shop their clothes by fabric .

Sourcing and Sustainability

If sustainability is important to you, research the brand’s sourcing practices. Some brands prioritize responsibly-sourced merino wool, ensuring the welfare of the sheep and minimizing environmental impact. Look for certifications or indications of sustainable and ethical production.

See also: My roundup of Eco-Friendly Travel Products (including clothes, cosmetics, and more).

Now that you have a clear understanding of the factors to consider when choosing the best merino wool clothing for your needs, let’s dive into a comparison of the top merino brands. 

Are you as much of a nerd for Travel Gear as I am? Then check out my collection of articles about a variety of items to make your next trip a breeze! 

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Do you like to see these things in action? Then check out my YouTube series featuring Travel Gear & Remote Work Tools to level up your travel game.

Top Merino Wool Clothing Brands for Travel

Here are the best merino wool clothing brands for travel – each has their own style, clothing properties, etc. Use this list to find the perfect fit for you! 

MERINO WOOL BRANDS FOR MEN & WOMEN  

Unbound Merino

Unbound Merino offers a range of clothing made from merino wool, including T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, pants, shorts, socks, underwear, and accessories such as beanies and scarves. Their clothing is designed with a minimalist and classic style that is versatile and suitable for a variety of occasions.

While they do offer clothes for both men and women, they are still developing their women’s line; men have a much wider variety of options.  

They source their merino wool from independent, mulesing-free farms that are Woolmark certified, ensuring high-quality wool that is ethically and sustainably produced. Their clothing is also made in factories that meet high ethical and environmental standards.

Their commitment to environmentally friendly practices extends beyond the sourcing of their wool. They use only natural, biodegradable materials in their clothing, making their products not only stylish and functional but also eco-friendly.

I own their leggings – which surprisingly hold their form really well, and they’re super soft and comfy. They also have a hidden zipper pocket at the waistband, which is handy for travel. I also have their travel dress , which is super versatile, comfortable, and packable. Both of these are staples in my travel wardrobe. 

Key Features/Pros of Unbound Merino:

• High-quality merino wool clothing
• They use super-fine micron wool only, resulting in very soft comfy clothes
• Sustainable and ethical sourcing
• Minimalist and classic style
• Versatile and functional
• Eco-friendly materials
• Travel-friendly
• Higher price point compared to other clothing brands
• Limited selection for women (for now)

Click here to shop at Unbound Merino .

WoolX has a wide repertoire of merino wool clothing and accessories for women and men, with a focus on outdoor apparel but including styles that can take you everywhere from mountain hikes to riverside cafes.

It’s a small family-run business in New York, with a few value-propositions that include specially-designed merino wool clothes that can be machine washed and dried for easy care (though I still air-dry my merino wool clothes; clothes driers contribute to unnecessary wear & tear and an accidentally high heat setting could ruin your merino).

They source their wool from Woolmark-certified merino sheep in Australia, additionally ensuring that all their wool is certified non-mulesed. They also have a no strings attached 100% satisfaction guarantee and 100% No-Itch Guarantee! Free shipping (in the US) on returns and exchanges seal the deal for a hassle-free customer-centric experience.

I was particularly drawn to WoolX for some of their unique styles like the Charlotte Puff Sleeve Top (which I adore), cold weather pants (which are on my list), and an entire line of ridiculously soft can’t-believe-it’s-merino pyjamas (merino wool’s temperature-regulating properties make for an extra comfy night of sleep, which can be especially problematic for menopausal women and others who get night sweats). I also really like some of the colours on offer, including the heather-coloured Piper Pocket leggings , which are unique, warm, and very flattering (and have pockets!!).

Key Features/Pros of WoolX:

• Wide range of clothing and styles for men and women, including larger sizes
• Shop by season, as well as style or sex
• Machine washable & drier-friendly (low heat)
• Ethically sourced from non-mulesed farms
• Family-run business
• 100% satisfaction guarantee (and no-itch guarantee!)
• Free exchanges/returns, postage-paid
• Only available in USA
• Higher price points

Click here to shop at WoolX!

Aviator offers comfortable and lightweight merino wool tops, including hoodies, polos, and tee-shirts. Aside from merino wool, they also make award-winning travel-friendly jeans. Customers have given Aviator’s products high ratings for comfort and suitability for travel.

The wool is sourced from New Zealand, where the sheep are raised in humane and sustainable conditions. Their products are designed with travel in mind, as they are lightweight, packable, and versatile (yep, even the jeans!) 

Aviator, proudly made in the USA, is committed to sustainability and ethical production practices, using eco-friendly materials and ensuring fair treatment and living wages for their workers.

I have everything in Aviator’s merino collection (at least, everything they offer for women). 

The T-shirt is pretty thick, which means it resists wrinkling and holds its form nicely (some merino shirts are a bit flimsy and can show bra straps). 

The First Class Merino Hoodie is a great zip-up hoodie that has a few nifty travel-friendly features like a hood that doubles as an eye mask and some mitten cuffs. 

The Red-Eye Hoodie is the lightest weight of the three shirts, and is super comfy. It also has the same travel-friendly features of the First Class hoodie. 

Click here to see my video review of these and other Aviator duds I have. 

Key Features/Pros of Aviator:

• Comfortable merino wool tops
• A variety of different weights available
• High-quality merino wool sourced from New Zealand
• Hoodies have special travel-friendly features, like a hood that doubles as an eye mask
• Commitment to sustainability and ethical production practices
• Fair treatment and living wage for workers
• Limited selection, and only shirts

Click here to shop Aviator’s merino tops and travel-friendly jeans!

Icebreaker 

Icebreaker offers a variety of clothing for men, women, and kids. The style and purpose of their clothing is geared towards outdoor activities and adventures, with features like body-mapping ventilation to keep cool and a blend of merino wool and plant-based TENCEL™ Lyocell for unbeatable freshness in warm weather. Icebreaker also offers 100% pure merino tees that are breathable, odor-resistant, and made for wearing everywhere.

Icebreaker is an OG in the merino clothing space. These days they also use other materials in some of their products, such as TENCEL™ Lyocell. They source their wool from a variety of places, including New Zealand, Australia, and South America. They have a program called “Baacode” that allows customers to trace the origins of their garment and learn about the ethical and environmental practices involved in its production. They are committed to responsible and sustainable practices, including using natural and biodegradable materials, reducing waste, and supporting ethical and fair labor practices.

I have had a few Icebreaker tops over the years, but honestly, none of them have made the cut in the long run for my personal sense of style and multi-purpose needs on the road. When I lived in the Rocky mountains they were great for mountain treks, but not so great if I wanted an elevated look. 

However a guy friend of mine who travels full-time with carry-on luggage only, wears almost exclusively Icebreaker t-shirts and boxers and socks. He likes that there is a good selection of different GSM weight options for your needs. He has the lightest GSM t-shirt for running, and heavier weights for other times of day and ambient temperatures. He says the “base layer” shirts are perfectly fine to wear as “normal” tee-shirts. 

Key Features/Pros of Icebreaker:

•  Super high-quality materials
• An OG in the merino wool clothing industry
• Special attention to responsible sustainable production on all levels
• One of the few merino brands that have clothes for kids as well 
• Products are a bit on the expensive side
• Style is mainly limited to activewear and base layers 

Click here to shop Icebreaker’s products on Amazon!  

Smartwool 

Smartwool offers a huge variety of clothing, including socks, base layers, mid layers, and accessories such as hats and gloves. Most of their clothing is designed to be used for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and running, as well as for everyday wear.

They use ZQ-certified Merino wool, which ensures the wool is ethically sourced and sustainable. They also use other sustainable materials such as recycled polyester and TENCEL™ Lyocell. Their clothing is not 100% merino wool, as they also use other materials such as nylon and elastane for stretch and durability. So, while merino wool is a significant part of their overall offering and branding, it’s important to check the fabric composites closely.

Smartwool has several environmentally friendly and responsible practices, including using sustainable materials, reducing waste, and supporting conservation efforts. They partner with organizations such as The Nature Conservancy and The Conservation Alliance to give back to the environment.

I bought their Sport Fleece Wind Tights , and was all excited to have a warm pair of merino leggings that I planned to travel with and use for cool/cold-weather hikes. They are indeed lightweight and very warm and comfy and super sturdy, but despite the Amazon listing saying they’re 100% wool, they are in fact, less than 50% merino. 

A male friend of mine has their everyday socks that he wears as dress socks and he LOVES them. Similarly, the listing says “100% wool”, but further down you learn it’s only 55% merino wool; granted for socks, that’s still pretty good. 

Key Features/Pros of Smartwool:

• Wide range of clothing including socks, base layers, mid layers, and accessories
• Focus on athletic performance and comfort
• Even if the Amazon listing says 100% merino wool, check carefully; some items are less than 50% merino
• Limited style options

Shop the Smartwool store on Amazon here!  

Merino.tech 

Merino.tech offers a variety of clothing made from 100% organic New Zealand Merino wool. Their collection includes shirts, socks, underwear, base layers, and accessories like neck gaiters.

Founded in 2018 in Canada, Merino.tech is a collaboration between the company and some of the finest mills and factories worldwide. They use only environmentally friendly paints in their manufacturing process. 

I have their V-Neck Short Sleeve T-Shirt , which is super soft and incredibly comfortable. It’s also very lightweight and thin, which makes it great for travel packing, but if you order a light colour it will likely be a bit see-through. I have the purple (nice shade) and I use it for sleeping. 

I also own a pair of their merino socks , and I really like them; they’re comfy, hold their form, resist pilling, and are 85% merino wool. 

Key Features/Pros of Merino.tech:

• Offers Lifetime Warranty
• Lots of colours to choose from
• Very reasonable prices; great if you’re dipping your toes into the world of merino clothes
• Canadian company (great for Canadians who want to support local businesses)
• Limited options for women (for example, the men’s lineup of shirts has a variety of nice polos; women only have t-shirts)

Shop the Merino.tech store on Amazon here!

Woolly 

Woolly offers a wide range of clothing items, including shirts, pants, leggings, socks, and underwear for both men and women. Their clothing is designed to be comfortable, durable, and stylish while providing the natural benefits of merino wool.

Woolly sources their wool from Australia, ensuring it is ethically and sustainably produced. They use merino wool as a foundation fabric and develop innovative products like NatureDry.

As a small independent business in Seattle, they support local causes and ensure responsible production as members of the Business Social Compliance Initiative (BSCI). They donate to organizations like Recovery Café and reinvest profits into organizations that inspire them, including Black Lives Matter Seattle, the NAACP, and the Northwest Avalanche Center.

Key Features/Pros of Woolly:

• Socially and environmentally conscious business 
• Some pretty low prices for some items, making it an easy intro to merino wool 
• Fewer options for women (though still pretty good overall) 

Shop the Woolly clothing store on Amazon here!

Ridge Merino 

Ridge Merino is a small, family-owned business based in Mammoth Lakes, California. They offer an extensive collection of clothing for men, women, and children, featuring items such as base layers, hoodies, shirts, pants, underwear, socks, and an array of accessories like neck gaiters, beanies, and hats.

Key Features/Pros of Ridge Merino: 

• Proud member of 1% for the Planet and the first company in Mammoth Lakes, California to achieve Green Business Certification
• You can shop by collection, including SPF clothing, merino wool + TENCEL, and 100% merino wool 
• Very reasonable prices 
• Not much in the “elevated style” department. Mostly activewear and underwear 

Shop Ridge Merino Clothes here! 

MERINO WOOL BRANDS FOR WOMEN ONLY

Wool& specializes in women’s clothing, with an incredibly diverse and stylish collection that includes dresses, tops, bottoms, and accessories. They prioritize environmental responsibility, aiming to minimize their carbon footprint throughout their operations.

When it comes to crafting their garments, Wool& takes a thoughtful and innovative approach. They not only have pieces that are made from 100% merino wool, but they have created a series smart blends that are still mainly merino wool, but have a combination of other materials to give each fabric their own unique properties. They have merino wool blends that are like jersey, tweed, linen, and even denim. 

I have a huge number of Wool& clothing items; in fact, they primarily made my merino wool travel capsule wardrobe for my 3-month carry-on trip through Europe possible. You can check out this video (including the links in the description ) to see the full packing list in action. Here are some of my fav pieces: 

• Sofia midi dress
• Poppy tank top
• Florence tunic (perfect for layering over anything for a bit of warmth and looking stylish)
• Frame ponte culotte (which I worried I might not like as much and isn’t quite as soft, but has ended up being very useful as it’s a heavier weight of fabric and a bit more durable; excellent for travel days)

Key Features/Pros of Wool&:

• Allows customers to shop based on fabric or model 
• Refreshingly elevated styles available, with a ton of dresses and nice tops and even pants 
• Packaging made from 99% post-consumer waste paper
• It’s not cheap, but it is high-quality 

Get your Wool& women’s wardrobe here! 

MERINO WOOL BRANDS FOR MEN ONLY

Wool & Prince

Wool & Prince is the men’s counterpart to Wool& (above). They have a diverse selection of clothing items for men, including shirts, pants, socks, jackets, vests, underwear, and accessories. 

Similar to Wool&, they have created unique mainly-merino blends that result in super practical clothes that you wouldn’t even know are merino, including stretch canvas pants/shorts and denim jeans. 

Wool & Prince offer a satisfaction guarantee, ensuring that if an item does not meet expectations, they will make it right. They also support thoughtful consumption and simple living through their sponsorship of the Only What Matters online community. They value customer feedback and actively seeks input to improve their products and services.

Key Features/Pros of Wool & Prince:

• Creative fabric blends that result in more multi-purpose clothing 
• Refreshingly elevated styles available, not typical of what you’d expect from merino clothes
• Not super cheap 

Shop for Wool & Prince duds here! 

Western Rise 

Western Rise offers versatile clothing designed specifically for men – some of which is made from merino wool. The company is known for its use of technical fabrics, premium construction techniques, and sustainable manufacturing practices. Fashion-wise it’s intended to seamlessly take fellas from mountain trails to office meetings. 

I featured Western Rise in another article on my site, profiling not only some of their merino duds, but also their award-winning pants (which are not merino). You can read all about it at The Best Travel Clothes for Men . 

Their range of merino products includes shirts, polos, pants, socks, and accessories. I have seen their uber-popular Strong Core Merino Tee in action, along with the Limitless Merino Button-Down and Limitless Merino Polo . In all cases I’ve been impressed with the quality and comfort, as has been the fella wearing it. 

Key Features/Pros of Western Rise:

• Diverse selection of clothes that bridge the gap between active casual and dressy casual
• Multiple styles of award-winning pants and shorts (not merino though)
• Climate Neutral Certified 
• Funnily enough, three of my male friends balked at the style of the limitless merino button-down – specifically the buttons on the collar! 

Shop at Western Rise here! And use PROHOBO10 for 10% off your first order. 

Libertad 

Libertad does one thing and one thing only: 100% merino wool travel shirts. Nice ones. 

The founder was inspired to create Libertad while on his own travels, noticing that most leisure travel clothes are utilitarian and comfortable but not stylish. Wanting the best of both worlds, Libertad was born. 

They offer a variety of shirt styles, including single pocket, no pocket, double chest pockets, and short sleeve options.

Key Features/Pros of Libertad:

• Their shirts are crafted from 100% merino wool
• Spun tighter so the material has more dress-shirt-like structure, unlike many merino shirts which droop off the shoulders 
• Convertible adjustable cuffs
• If you’re not interested in upscale collared shirts, you’ll be outta luck

Get your 100% merino dress shirt at Libertad here!  

Proper Cloth

Proper Cloth offers a wide range of custom-fit, made-to-order clothing for men. Their clothing collection includes shirts, pants, jackets, suits, and accessories.

They have developed fit prediction algorithms and 3D visualization tools that allow customers to create custom sizes and modify designs.

While Proper Cloth offers a diverse range of fabrics, merino wool is one of the materials they use. They source their merino wool from New Zealand and ensure that it meets ZQ certification standards, guaranteeing high animal welfare and a sustainable supply chain. 

I have a guy friend who is tall and quite slim, and he has a very long torso in particular. Getting properly fit clothing within the standard “small / medium / large” clothing structure is difficult for him; he is the one who told me about Proper Cloth, and while he doesn’t have any clothes from Proper Cloth yet, but he plans to order some. 

Key Features/Pros of Proper Cloth:

• Follows a made-to-order production model, which helps avoid overproduction and reduces waste. Approximately 95% of their clothing is made-to-order, eliminating the need to guess how many items to produce in advance
• Recycle returned garments through partnerships with organizations like Green Tree and Fabscrap
• By far the most expensive clothing in this article. But….that’s to be expected for made-to-order custom clothing 

Get your custom merino clothes at Proper Cloth here! 

Tips for Caring for Your Merino Wool Clothing

Merino wool care is important to maintain its performance and extend its lifespan. Merino clothes aren’t typically cheap, so you want to make sure they’ll last. By following these tips, you can ensure they’ll stay in excellent condition:

Washing: Hand-wash or machine-wash using a gentle cycle with cold water. Use a mild, wool-specific detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as they can damage the natural fibers of the wool.

Drying: After washing, gently squeeze out excess water from your merino wool garments. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric, as this can lead to stretching or distortion. Lay the clothing flat on a clean towel or a drying rack to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as they can cause shrinkage or damage.

Stain Removal: Treat stains as soon as possible. Blot the stained area with a clean cloth using cold water and a mild detergent. Avoid rubbing vigorously, as it can push the stain deeper into the fibers. 

Here are common mistakes to avoid:

Avoid using hot water: Hot water can cause merino wool to shrink or lose its shape. Stick to cold water for washing and rinsing.

Don’t over-wash: Merino wool has natural antibacterial properties that help resist odor. Avoid washing your garments frequently, instead air them out between uses to refresh them. Yes – it actually works! There are people who have done 100-day merino wool challenges; wearing the same shirt for 100 days without washing! While I wouldn’t go that far, I’ve worn my merino clothes for way longer than other clothes and they almost never smell. 

Skip the dryer: High heat from a dryer can shrink or damage merino wool. Always air dry your clothing to maintain its shape and integrity. Don’t worry – it dries very quickly. 

Avoid abrasive materials : When washing or drying your merino wool clothing, avoid using rough surfaces or materials that can cause friction or pilling. 

Choose the Best Merino Wool Clothing for Your Next Adventure

Merino clothes are adaptable, comfortable, low maintenance, long lasting, multi-purpose, durable, breathable, and even biodegradable. 

In order to choose the best clothing items for your next trip, remember to factor in the purpose, climate, and weather conditions of your destination, as well as your personal style preferences.

With the right merino wool pieces in your wardrobe, you can confidently face any adventure, knowing that you’re well-equipped with the exceptional benefits of this remarkable natural fiber.

See also: 

My Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Best Travel Clothes for Women

Best Travel Clothes for Men (+ 5 Items you NEED From Western Rise)

Eco-Friendly Travel Products and Clothes  

9 thoughts on “Merino Wool Clothing for Travel: A Guide to Choosing the Best Brands”

I recently got a Merino wool beret for myself, and I so loved the softness and texture that I am now planning to get some more pieces made out of Merino wool.

But, yes, I did not know that it is good for the environment as well.

That’s awesome! Merino wool is the best. 🙂 Hope you get some more pieces! THey’ll serve you well.

This blog post is really very helpful for me. Your brand recommendations have simplified the quest for both comfort and style on my future adventures.

I have been a fan of merino wool for a long time, and I agree with all the benefits you listed. It’s such a versatile and comfortable fabric that works well in any climate and situation. I especially liked your tips on how to choose the best brands and what to look for in terms of quality, weight, and style. Thanks for sharing this valuable guide!

Thank YOU, Supraja! Do you have a fav merino wool company/designer?

Two comments in one: 1. I switched to wool blend socks, including Smart Wool, several years ago. Most of my older supply of cotton socks languish in a drawer, used only when I think I need a specific color design. Wool socks cured my chronic foot fungus problem.

2. I come from a midwestern U.S. farm family. According to my father, his grandfather wore a wool union suit every day-winter and summer. I can only guess that he wore a variety of weights according to the seasons. It is a practice lost on more recent generations.

Wool is where it’s at! I’m starting to convert my socks to merino wool as well.

I have a Merino bottom layer for whenever I do hiking when it’s cold. An absolute life saver – absorbs the sweat so I pretty much never feel cold due to being sweaty while moving 😀

I agree – merino as a bottom layer is amazing in cold weather! I’ve taken up skiing, and I regularly end up sweating under all my layers. That would be a disaster with cotton which would make me cold! Merino still keeps me warm.

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• Travel Clothes

The Best Merino Wool Clothing for Travel: Buyer’s Guide

Published December 19, 2023

Written by:

Jessie Beck

Jessie is a writer, editor, and content marketer who covers travel gear and adventure travel. She’s called many places home...

Fred Perrotta

Co-founder, tortuga.

Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the...

Jeremy Michael Cohen

Jeremy Michael Cohen is a co-founder of Tortuga. He also works as a screenwriter and director. Aside from travel and...

The Tortuga Promise

At Tortuga, our mission is to make travel easier. Our advice and recommendations are based on years of travel experience. We only recommend products that we use on our own travels.

Table of Contents

Merino wool has been called “nature’s performance fabric.” A high-quality piece of merino wool clothing has the same—or even superior—benefits of technical apparel but is made from a natural fiber.

We consider merino wool one of the best fabrics for travel clothes because it works well across a range of temperatures, dries quickly, absorbs odors, and feels comfortable against the skin.

If you prefer natural fibers to synthetics, merino wool is a great choice for your travel wardrobe. Here at Tortuga, we’ve been merino wool fans for years. You’ll often find it on our backs and in our bags . When we polled our Instagram followers, 74% said that they wear merino wool when they travel.

You might be wondering what the merino hype is about and whether it’s worth its (often high) price point. We’ll start this article with more background on wool and why it’s great for travel. Then we’ll highlight the best merino wool brands and clothing items so that you can avoid the downsides of merino and make sure you’re getting good value for your money.

Pack for trips of one week or more without checking a bag.

• Thick comfortable straps
• Easy to organize
• Durable, waterproof fabric
• Backed by our Worldwide Warranty

What is Merino Wool?

Where does merino wool come from.

Merino wool comes from Merino sheep. This breed of sheep originated in Spain in the twelfth century before being brought to Australia in 1797 . Today most merino wool comes from sheep in Australia and New Zealand.

Wool is a broad term for any fabric made from the natural fibers that form the fleece of animals. Common types of wool come from a variety of animals, not just sheep. For example, all of the following fabrics are considered wool:

• Alpaca (from alpacas)
• Angora (from rabbits)
• Camel hair (from camels)
• Cashmere (from goats)
• Mohair (from goats)
• Qiviut (from musk oxen)
• Vicuña (from vicuñas)

Other types of wool—lambswool, melton, and shetland wool—are all made from sheep’s wool.

How is Merino Different from Other Wool?

Since merino wool comes from a specific breed of sheep, it’s different from other wool.

Like other types of wool, merino is moisture-wicking, breathable, and adaptable to different temperatures. Across all varieties, wool tends to be warm and water-resistant .

But not all wool is the same. Melton wool is perfect for a thick, heavy peacoat but would make for a terrible t-shirt.

Merino wool fibers make for great shirts because they are much finer than “regular” wool varieties. The finer fibers are made into yarn which is made into a roll of fabric. That final, merino wool fabric is both lighter and softer than other wool.

The diameter of a merino wool fiber is generally less than 22 microns in diameter. One micron is equal to one millionth of a meter . Merino fibers are 22 millionths of a meter across. Luxury, “ultra fine” merino can be as small as 17.5 microns. A human hair, for comparison, is 50-100 microns, up to 6x the diameter of finer merinos .

Merino Wool for Travel

Merino wool is a great travel fabric because it’s incredibly versatile. Every attribute that you need on the road happens to be a strength of merino wool.

• Resists odors
• Wicks moisture
• Dries (relatively) quickly
• Stays comfortable in any temperature
• Feels (relatively) soft to the touch
• Doesn’t wrinkle (much)
• Is lightweight and easy to pack

Merino clothing is an investment, but you can easily get your money’s worth on a trip. Your merino wool clothes will work across a range of temperatures and will manage moisture well.

You can wear merino multiple times between washes without it stinking. People never believe merino’s anti-odor properties. They seem too good to be true.

Mac Bishop, the founder of Wool & Prince, wore the same merino wool button down for 100 days straight , without washing it, to prove how great merino’s anti-odor properties are. Now 200+ men and 13 women have completed the same 100 day challenge.

When you do need to wash your wool, just do a quick hand wash in the sink, and let it dry overnight.

When I’m packing for a trip , even trips of a week or more, I never bring more than three pairs of merino wool socks. I know that I’ll re-wear each pair at least two to three times and expect to wash them during the trip. You could travel indefinitely with one or two pairs of merino socks if you’re willing to go really minimal.

Finally, merino is lightweight and easy to pack. Despite its packability, I never pack my merino shirts because I’m always wearing one as my travel day outfit .

Merino wool is called “nature’s performance fabric” because it performs as well as most synthetic fabrics but is natural and sustainable.

Is Merino Wool Quick Dry?

Merino wool is naturally moisture-wicking and dries faster than cotton and other natural fabrics. However, merino won’t dry as quickly as synthetics fabrics like polyester.

When traveling, you’ll be able to wash your merino clothes at night and have a dry t-shirt or pair of socks by morning.

Merino wool’s water-resistance comes from its “scale” structure which gives it a performance advantage over the smoother fibers of cotton, silk, linen, and polyester. The difference in scale between the broad wool and fine wool in the image is the difference between a rough wool sweater and a soft merino wool t-shirt.

Is Merino Wool Warm?

Yes. Like other wools, merino is naturally temperature regulating.

Merino sheep can withstand temperatures ranging from -20 to +35 °C ( -4 to +95° F). 

Clothes made from merino wear well across a wide range of temperatures. Merino can be used as a base layer or outer layer in the winter or a t-shirt in the summer. The fabric comes in a range of weights, expressed in grams, so you can choose a heavier version if you need it for cold weather.

Are Merino Wool Clothes a Good Base Layer?

Yes. You can make almost any piece of clothing out of merino, but the fabric’s strengths are most apparent in base layers like t-shirts, leggings, and socks.

One of wool’s superpowers—merino or otherwise—is that it acts as a cooling, sweat-wicking fabric in hot weather and a warm, heat-retaining fabric in cold weather. Merino is a versatile layer for most climates. Merino, of course, is thinner and less bulky than other wools, making it an excellent option as a base layer for  cold weather adventures .

You’ll commonly find merino in outdoor clothing, but these qualities also make it ideal for travel. Whether you want clothes that can go days without washing or simply the perfect tee to take with you on a  multi-climate trip,  merino wool is up for the challenge.

To maximize versatility, look for a “lightweight” top around 170-200 grams. This weight of fabric will be the most versatile for a variety of climates and will be more durable than a featherweight merino layer.

Merino Wool vs Cotton

Merino can’t compete with cotton on price. So why would you ever choose merino over cotton? Because merino dries faster, smells better (after wear), and is less wrinkly. Merino is an obvious winner over cotton for travel because it looks and smells great even after wearing it multiple times. Plus, it dries faster when you do wash it.

Merino Wool vs Polyester

Polyester, and other synthetics, were engineered to perform like the best natural fibers, including merino. Polyester dries faster, never wrinkles, and wicks moisture even better than merino. But merino is far superior in odor management. Synthetic fabrics hold on to odors even after a single wear. You can even buy special detergents and treatments for synthetics for this reason. You won’t smell bad in merino, but you might stink in synthetics.

Additionally, merino wool is a natural, sustainable material. Merino sheep grow a new coat of wool every year. Polyester and other synthetics are made from petroleum.

Disadvantages of Merino Wool

Now that we’ve covered what’s so great about merino, let’s quickly touch on the downsides of the fabric before discussing our favorite clothing items.

Merino wool isn’t cheap. One of our favorite brands, Outlier, sells a merino t-shirt for $120. Yes, one hundred and twenty dollars . Outlier is at the high end of prices, but even cheaper merino tees are $50 or more.

Making a garment with merino wool can use twice as much material compared to conventional wool. The fine fibers of merino require additional layering. We believe that the cost is justified for a natural, sustainable fabric like merino.

Merino wool is an investment. Don’t try to replace your entire closet all at once. Add one high-value piece at a time. We’ll cover the best quality and value brands below.

Two attributes justify the cost of “good” merino over cheap merino. The first is hand feel. Finer merino is more expensive but feels softer to the touch. The second is durability. We’ve tried cheap merino in the past. If you aren’t extremely delicate with it, your expensive clothes will be full of holes. Depending on the item, I usually prioritize durability over softness because the former is such a risk with the wrong merino.

Like most fabrics, merino comes in  different weights . Clothing made from a lighter weight merino will feel soft and more similar to a slightly coarse cotton jersey t-shirt than a sweater.

Pay for good quality wool or choose a cheaper synthetic. Cheap wool is the worst “value” you can find. You’ll pay more and get less than a cheaper poly blend shirt.

Merino wool blends—discussed below—can offset some of the durability issues.

To prolong the lifespan of your wool, take good care of it. We’ll cover how to wash merino wool clothing at the end of this article.

Is Merino Wool Itchy?

You might associate “wool” with “itchy” especially if you’ve ever owned a big, coarse wool sweater.

Merino wool is surprisingly soft for wool . Depending on the brand, your merino clothes will feel more like a cotton t-shirt than the wool sweater that you might be imagining. However, merino isn’t as smooth as a slick polyester fabric and can still feel a bit scratchier than cotton.

Natural fibers are a better option for most people. If you’re particularly sensitive to merino consider an outer layer for warmth rather than a “next to skin” base layer.

The finer the wool, the softer it will feel. However, finer wool is also less durable. The solution is a midweight wool or a blend.

Merino Wool Blends

Blending fibers can bring out the strengths of each while offsetting the respective weaknesses.

In socks, merino wool is often blended with lycra for elasticity and a snug fit. Clothing companies also blend merino with nylon or polyester for increased durability. A nylon blend is generally more durable but also more expensive than a polyester blend.

Blending in another material can improve merino’s performance. For example, by spinning merino around a core of nylon fibers, you’ll retain the benefits of having merino next to your skin but with improved durability from the nylon. Don’t assume the blended material is just “filler” to cut corners and reduce costs.

Some of the best brands use merino blends to maximize performance. We’ll cover those in the next section.

The Best Merino Wool Clothing

Not all merino is created equal. You’ll find a mix of 100% merino and merino-wool blends on the market at a wide range of prices and quality. I know because I’ve tried a lot of brands. I’ve bought merino socks that lasted me for years. But I’ve also bought shirts that looked like Swiss cheese after just a few wears.

Sometime in the last few years, the number of merino brands and clothing items has exploded. Many aren’t bringing anything new to the market. They’ve just figured out that you can change a lot of money for basics if they have “merino” in the name. Instead, we prefer to rely on the brands that have been around for years and proven themselves as well as the newer generation of brands bringing original ideas and high tech products to the market.

Merino Wool Socks

If you’re new to merino wool, start with socks. That’s how I got started.

Wool socks aren’t cheap, but you will get good value for your money. The best merino wool socks can last for years.

Socks are a good starting point because you’ll quickly see the benefits of merino: warmth and odor resistance. Seriously, smell your socks at the end of the day and see how long you can go before they smell and need washed. Give your socks a quick hand wash in the sink, let them dry overnight, and start the process over again the next day. I always pack socks with the assumption that I’ll rewear them two to three times and wash them (on longer trips).

Darn Tough Socks

Darn Tough’s Made in the USA, merino blend socks are the best I’ve found in years of testing. You’ll find socks for men and women in a range of heights, underfoot cushioning, and fabric blends.

My preferred socks for fall and winter are the Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Socks for Men or Women ($24) made of a blend of wool, nylon, and spandex.

People Socks

People Socks don’t have all the features or design options of fancier brands. But they perform about as well, last just as long, and are also made in the USA.

A pair of unisex People Socks will run you about $10, less than half what you’ll pay competitors.

Read the full buyer’s guide to travel socks .

Merino Wool Base Layers

You can make just about any clothing item out of merino wool. In addition to socks, wearing wool as a base layer is a great way to see the benefits especially when it comes to temperature regulation. You don’t need to buy something labeled specifically as a base layer. That’s often just a way to get you to spend more money on an ugly shirt.

Instead, buy basics that you can wear alone, in combination, or just as one of multiple layers in cold weather. You should feel just as happy wearing a merino tee on its own as under three layers.

We recommend packing to dress in layers . Wearing merino is a great way to pack less because it can be a warm fabric relative to its weight or thickness.

Merino Wool T-Shirts

After socks, tees should be your next base layer. While I’ve tested a lot of merino wool socks, I’ve tried even more t-shirts. Most have quickly snagged and become riddled with holes. The following are the brands that our team has found to stand up to repeat wears.

Men’s Merino Wool T-Shirts

Unbound Merino T-Shirts

Unbound Merino has become my go-to for basics including short ($75) and long sleeve tees ($95). They’ve held up so far without any holes. As a bonus, they offer a nice stretch despite not including any spandex, which can wear out over time.

Western Rise StrongCore Merino Tee

Western Rise has some of the best technical fabrics on the market including its StrongCore Merino Jersey which is a “core-spun nylon Merino fiber for increased strength.” The blend is made of 89% merino and 11% nylon for durability.

The StrongCore Merino Tee ($96) is the best showcase for this material.

Outlier Ultrafine Merino T-Shirt

Here’s the $120 t-shirt that we promised. While their prices are steep, Outlier delivers as a brand. Their Ultrafine Merino T-Shirt is made of 17.5 micron fibers for softness but weighs in at 195 gsm for greater durability and a better drape. Outlier’s merino tee is the softest that we’ve found.

Wool & Prince 78/22 Crew Neck Tee

Wool & Prince sells a handful of tees in different weights and blends. We recommend their most popular: the 78/22 Crew Neck Tee , a 78% merino, 22% nylon blend that uses 17.5 micron fibers to strike the right balance of durability and softness.

Women’s Merino Wool T-Shirts

Wool& Stella Scoop Neck Tee

Wool& is the new-ish women ‘s brand from the same people behind the menswear brand Wool & Prince. While Wool& started with a dress, which we’ll get to below, they’ve also launched a basic t-shirt called the Stella Scoop Neck Tee ($78).

Woolly Ultralight Tank Top

Seattle-based Woolly makes high-quality merino clothes more accessible to those on a budget with their affordable basics. Everything is under $100 and some are even under $60.

The Women’s Ultralight Tank Top  ($40) is an affordable, easy-to-layer basic and a great addition to any warm weather travel wardrobe.

Read the full buyer’s guide to travel t-shirts .

Merino Wool Leggings

Like a good t-shirt, leggings can be worn alone or as a base layer depending on the weather.

Minus33 Fanconia Women ‘s Bottom

All of Minus33’s outdoor-ready lines are sturdy, well-made, and fit well. The  Midweight Franconia Women’s Bottom  ($75) are 100% merino wool with a fabric weight of 235 grams, which means they’ll keep you warm on your cold weather travels.

Smartwool Women ‘s 250 Bottom

For a heavier weight option, try the Smartwool Women’s Merino 250 Base Layer Bottom ($100).

Smartwool is one of the classic merino wool brands, so you can trust them. Their Merino 250 fabric “offers breathable warmth, moves sweat away from the body, and provides next-to-skin comfort in colder conditions.”

Read the full buyer’s guide to travel leggings .

Merino Wool Underwear

Yes, people wear wool underwear. If you’re willing to try it, here are two boxer briefs for men to consider.

Wool & Prince Boxer Briefs

Developed with our friend and gear expert Eytan of Snark Nomad , Wool & Prince’s Boxer Briefs ($42) feature nylon for durability and spandex for stretch.

Most notably, they’re designed to stretch with your legs so that they never bunch up.

Western Rise StrongCore Merino Boxer Briefs

Western Rise also uses their StrongCore fabric in Boxer Briefs ($58). These underwear are a blend of merino wool, nylon, and elastane.

Read the full buyer’s guide to travel underwear .

Merino Wool Hoodies

Hoodies are a perfect in-flight layer. They’ll keep you warm and have useful pockets. A stylish hoodie will also double as your outer layer when you’re at your destination. Upgrading to a merino wool hoodie will give a you good reason to finally stop wearing your ratty old college hoodie.

Unbound Merino Compact Travel Hoodie

The  Unbound Compact Travel Hoodie  ($165) packs down to the size of a t-shirt and can last for weeks without needing a wash.

A great travel hoodie isn’t about tons of pockets and a bunch of gimmicky features (like some crowdfunded hoodies). The ideal travel hoodie packs down small, keeps you warm, and can last for weeks on the road. Superfine merino is even wrinkle-resistant, so you’ll look great even when stepping off an eight-hour flight.

Performance is key for long-haul travelers who go on extended trips across multiple climates.

Read the full buyer’s guide to travel hoodies .

Merino Wool Shirts

Most merino wool brands focus on basics like socks and tees. But high-quality wool has been used for years in dress clothes too. The best men’s suits are made of wool, of course.

Now there’s a new generation of technical apparel companies making wool button down shirts and dresses for work or casual wear.

Wool & Prince Button-Down Shirts

Wool & Prince’s Button-Down Shirts ($128-148) are my favorite merino dress shirts. They come in different weights, colors, and patterns depending on your style. The W&P button downs are perfect for work trips or weddings because they look good, smell great, and won’t wrinkle, even if you’re pulling one out of your backpack.

For summer, try their wool, linen blend shirts ($118-128).

Western Rise Limitless Merino Button-Down

For something a bit more technical, Western Rise’s Limitless Merino Button-Down ($129) blends 53% merino wool with 47% polyester for easy care and a four-way stretch.

I’ve found a bit of stretch to be handy in a dress shirt. When your shirt is tucked in, you’ll have the full range of motion without having to worry about your shirt pulling up and either blousing out or becoming untucked.

Merino Wool Dresses

Wool& Rowena Swing Dress

Wool& is the sister brand to Wool & Prince which we already highlighted in the t-shirt section above. But Wool& started with a single product: the wear-it-anywhere Rowena Swing Dress ($138). You can dress it up or down and yes, it has pockets.

For button down shirts, visit the  women’s section of Wool & Prince .

Read the full buyer’s guide to travel dresses .

Merino Wool Brands

Now that we’ve covered our product picks, let’s talk brands.

Our Instagram followers’ favorite merino wool brands, in order of votes, were:

• Wool & Prince
• Unbound Merino

The following brands also received at least one vote:

• Ridge Merino
• People’s Socks

We also recommend:

• Western Rise

How to Wash Merino Wool

Check the care instructions on your garment first. The brands and products above are a mix of 100% merino wool and merino wool blends that are up to half polyester or nylon.

Treat merino gently. Even high-quality merino can be more delicate than synthetics or cotton. When merino is blended with polyester or nylon, the result is more durable and, therefore, easier to care for. But, in either case, you spent a lot of money on the clothes. Don’t overwash them and, when you do wash them, do so gently.

Wash your merino wool in cold water or use the delicates setting on your machine.

Lay your clothes flat to dry. A short tumble dry, especially on low or no heat, can help work out some wrinkles. But don’t leave your clothes in for long. Better to have to iron them than to have to replace them. On the road, hanging a merino piece near a steaming shower quickly gets out any wrinkles.

Fortunately, this level of care lends itself well to traveling. Hand washing merino will help to preserve it.

Do not send your expensive merino wool clothes to the wash and fold. Be careful laundering it in an industrial washing machine if you can’t control the temperature and time on the machine.

When caring for merino, less is more.

5 Tips for Maintaining Merino Wool Clothing While Traveling

To help you make the most of your merino wool clothing while traveling, we’ve gathered five top tips from founders and owners in the travel industry. From protecting your wool items with sealed bags to opting for lightweight pieces and avoiding wringing, these experts share their best advice on how to buy, clean, and maintain merino wool clothing on the go.

Protect Wool Items with Sealed Bags

Invest in quality and air out garments, spot-clean and use wool-specific detergent, choose ethically sourced wool and follow care instructions.

• Opt for Lightweight Pieces and Avoid Wringing

When I travel with Merino wool, I keep the items in a sealed plastic bag. This way, it protects them against humidity and potential bugs. Also, if my items get wet, I dry them completely before storing them away. This keeps the Merino wool from smelling and will make it last longer. 

Finally, in many countries, you wash your clothes by going to the laundries. Here, I separate woolen items in a bag and explicitly tell the workers to wash the items separately and with delicate soap.

Josephine Remo Finderup , Founder, Josephine Remo’s Travel Site

Yes, I do travel with Merino wool clothing, and my top tip for buying, cleaning, and maintaining it while on the road is to invest in high-quality Merino wool pieces. I look for reputable brands known for their durability and versatility. 

With cleaning, Merino wool has a natural resistance to odors, so I try to air out my garments rather than washing them after every wear. When I do need to wash them, I use a gentle detergent and hand-wash in cold water to maintain their softness and shape. I also roll my Merino wool items in a towel to remove excess water and then lay them flat to dry, avoiding stretching or misshaping.

For maintenance, I ensure I have a small repair kit on hand for any minor snags or loose threads. Merino wool clothing can be a fantastic asset for travelers, as it’s comfortable, stylish, and easy to care for, making it a smart choice for a variety of professional settings.

Luis Manzano , Founder, OKLanzarote

Yes, I frequently travel with merino-wool clothing. My top tip for buying, cleaning, and maintaining merino-wool clothing while traveling is to invest in high-quality pieces. Look for reputable brands known for their merino-wool products to ensure durability and performance. 

For cleaning, merino wool naturally resists odors and stains, so you don’t need to wash it frequently. Instead, air it out and spot-clean as needed to maintain freshness. When washing is necessary, use a gentle detergent specifically designed for wool, and opt for hand-washing or a delicate cycle in cold water. Always follow care instructions on the garment’s label to prolong its lifespan and performance.

Tim White , Founder, milepro

Traveling with merino wool clothing is a smart choice because of its versatility, odor resistance, and moisture-wicking properties. 

One top tip for buying, cleaning, and maintaining merino wool clothing while traveling is to invest in high-quality, ethically sourced merino wool products. Look for reputable brands that prioritize sustainability and ethical production practices. When cleaning, follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer, which often include hand washing with a gentle wool detergent or using a washing machine on a delicate cycle with cold water. Avoid using fabric softeners or harsh detergents that can damage the fibers. 

To dry, gently squeeze out excess water and lay the garment flat on a towel to air dry. Merino wool clothing can last a long time with proper care, making it a valuable addition to your travel wardrobe.

Jim Campbell , Owner, Honeymoons

Is Merino Wool Worth It?

Yes. I consider myself a minimalist and am always on the hunt for the best performing clothes, especially for my travel wardrobe.

I want to pack as little as possible in my backpack while still looking and feeling good. I want to re-wear clothes without looking like I’m re-wearing clothes. I want to carry less than everyone else while still dressing better than everyone else.

Merino wool clothing is one way to do that. Treat your merino as an investment. Save up. Buy the good stuff.

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Jessie is a writer, editor, and content marketer who covers travel gear and adventure travel. She’s called many places home and traveled to 45+ countries.

She now lives in San Francisco with her husband where she splits her time between traveling, adventuring outdoors, and cooking (okay, eating).

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Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the company. For over a decade, he’s traveled the world from his home base in the Bay Area while working remotely. When he’s on the road, Fred enjoys both walking and eating as much as possible.

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Ultimate Guide to the Best Merino Wool Brands for Women

FASHION , Travel Clothing

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One of the absolute best fabrics for travel because of its superior warmth, functionality, and versatility, is merino wool which is a total must add to a capsule wardrobe. Our readers are sharing the best brands for merino wool , so check them out!

Best Merino Wool Clothing Brands

Table of contents.

Merino wool is an all-star travel fabric for good reason: It’s lightweight, temperature regulating, wrinkle-free, moisture-wicking, anti-odor, and designed to be re-worn without washing. It’ll totally change the packing game! 

If you’re ready to add some fabulous pieces to your travel arsenal, here are the merino wool best brands recommended by readers.

Top Merino Wool Brands for Women

These reader-favorite brands are specifically dedicated to making top-of-the-line merino wool clothing. You’ll find nothing but high-quality and travel-ready items below! 

Wool& Rowena Swing Dress | Sizes XS-3X (Regular & Long)

Wool& makes merino wool clothing that works in all climates and for all kinds of activities. The brand’s pieces are casual yet polished and endlessly wearable, allowing for a minimal yet super-cute packing list. Readers love how easy everything is to style, how comfortable and well-fitting the pieces are, and that they come in both standard and plus sizes. 

While everything from their tanks to their cardigans to their pants is popular, readers especially love Wool&’s dresses . The Rowena swing Dress and the Ellie midi wrap dress both get rave reviews for their flattering and ultra-versatile looks and year-round wearability. 

Learn to pack like a pro with TFG’s signature packing lists in no time!

Wool& Morgan V-Neck Tee | Sizes XS-3X

More reader-faves include the Axis midweight leggings that are perfectly snug yet stretchy, high-waisted, durable, and resist pilling. The Morgan v-neck tee is a cute basic, and the Aspen sweatshirt will keep you warm on chilly flights or brisk morning walks.

Discover our readers’ classic picks for the best t-shirts for travel !

Unbound Merino Long Sleeve Crew | Sizes XS-XL

Unbound Merino

Blending classic style with top-notch function, Unbound Merino makes elevated clothing that can handle any kind of adventure! Their superfine, premium merino wool was designed for the wear and tear of travel. 

One TFG reader shares that she owns a lot of Unbound Merino and that their leggings , tees , and socks performed incredibly on a 38-day carry-on-only trip! She adds that it’s the softest merino wool she’s owned. 

Unbound Merino Travel Dress | Sizes XS-XL

Readers frequently recommend Unbound Merino t-shirts for travel, as they’re well-tailored and can look chic with jeans and sporty with joggers — plus, they can be re-worn throughout your trip while looking and feeling fresh. 

Standout pieces include the V-neck t-shirt , leggings , travel midi dress , and long-sleeve crewneck tee . 

ibex Tranquil Long Sleeve Pullover | Sizes XS-XL

For outdoor enthusiasts who need functional layers to keep them warm and cozy, ibex has it all. A lot of their pieces are sporty but cute, so you could wear them on hikes or dressed up for some casual sightseeing. Plus, the brand is committed to ethical sourcing and manufacturing and is climate-neutral! 

Readers highly recommend the ibex Woolies thermal top and thermal bottoms for cold travels because they fit great and will stay fresh throughout your whole trip. The Nomad joggers are another pair that are comfy for lounging, functional for hikes, and cute for casual outings!

Wearing ibex Wool Aire Down Jacket , Bernardo Hooded Jacket paired with Zella Leggings and UGG Lorna Boots ( similar )

The 24 Hour short sleeve t-shirt is a great wardrobe staple, and the Tranquil sweatshirt is a simple layer that’ll go with everything. Another piece that I adore is the Wool Aire packable puffer jacket . It’s thin and lightweight but shockingly warm! 

On the hunt for a reliable, lightweight women’s jacket for travel? Here are our readers’ top picks!

Icebreaker Merino 175 Everyday Thermal Leggings | Sizes XS-XL

Some of our readers’ absolute favorite merino wool pieces for cold weather come from Icebreaker . Dedicated to making sustainable and long-lasting performance wear, readers give rave reviews about the durability, function, and simple yet cute designs. One reader says her Icebreaker thermals felt super soft, kept her warm and dry, still felt fresh after multiple days of wear, and that the quality is fantastic! 

The 175 Everyday thermal leggings are a major reader favorite. A great base layer for frigid weather, these are lightweight and soft, with a contoured, slim fit for smooth layering. The slightly thicker 260 Tech thermal leggings are another pair that can be worn under jeans , ski pants , or solo! 

Icebreaker Merino Granary Midi Tee Dress | Sizes XS-XL

Readers also love how breathable and cozy both the 175 Everyday crew thermal top and the Sphere II short-sleeve t-shirt are. Check out the Rye Granary dress , too, a baggy t-shirt-style dress that’s soft, cozy, and super versatile.

Woolly Pro-Knit Cowl Neck | Sizes XS-XXL

Designed to tackle the great outdoors and whatever travel adventures you have planned, Woolly clothing is simple in design and outstanding in quality. Readers also love that Woolly is affordable and offers a great range from activewear to simple tees to underwear and socks ! 

Woolly’s legging is a top pick. They’re blended with a hint of elastane for extra flexibility, and readers say they feel amazing. The Pro-Knit cowl neck pullover is an adorable, lightweight option, with a long silhouette and warming thumbholes to keep you cozy. 

Woolly Long Sleeve Crew | Sizes XS-XXL

Travelers say the long sleeve crew shirt is amazing for layering and can be worn as is for an active excursion or even a casual day in cooler weather. Readers also love Woolly underwear , claiming that it’s ultra-comfy, breathable, and ideal for travel. 

Minus 33 Midweight Merino Wool Bottom | Sizes XS-XXXL (Regular, Petite, & Long)

Known for making cozy and functional gear for outdoor adventuring, Minus33 is a high-quality brand that aims to be as environmentally and socially conscious as possible. They offer clothing for virtually any adventure, whether hiking and camping , skiing, or even city sightseeing. Readers appreciate the brand’s simple designs that’ll always fit into a capsule wardrobe . 

TFG readers highlight the brand’s thermals, as they offer a wide range of weights including micro, lightweight, midweight, and expedition. These midweight thermal tops and midweight thermal bottoms are the most popular.

Minus 33 Woolverino Sun Hoodie | Sizes XS-XXL

The Micro Weight quarter zip hoodie is a sleek and ultra-packable layering piece that can go sporty or be dressed up with jeans and ankle boots. Minus33’s socks come highly recommended, too, with a huge range of options for any activity. 

Smartwool Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew | Sizes XS-XL

When merino wool is the topic of discussion, Smartwool is always raved about and strongly recommended for every type of travel. Smartwool stands out with its robust craftsmanship paired with bright colors and fun designs, adding some cheery warmth to your cold-weather travels. One reader says all of her socks are from Smartwool, while another says that they make the absolute best merino base layers . 

Smartwool Larimer Light Cushion Crew Socks

Smartwool is most notably known for its awesome socks , with pairs designed for skiing, hiking, working out, and everyday wear. The Everyday light cushion no show socks and the Everyday Larimer light cushion crew socks are two of the most popular pairs. 

Smartwool’s merino wool thermals are also loved by readers, with the Classic base layer top and Classic base layer bottom being the favorites. Smartwool also offers cute and cozy beanies and adorable sweaters ! 

This is our essential list of the best travel clothing brands for women!

Darn Tough Element Quarter Lightweight Sock

Socks can make or break your travel adventure, which is why so many readers depend on Darn Tough for the comfiest and most functional merino wool socks around. They’re definitely one of the best merino wool sock brands , and one reader agrees, sharing that nothing lasts as long as her Darn Tough socks! She says she’s been wearing them year-round for about 10 years and loves them for travel and hiking.

Oh, and they’re backed by an unconditional lifetime guarantee! Readers love the Element quarter running sock , with moisture-wicking properties and mesh to keep things cool and dry. 

Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Midweight Hiking Sock

Their lightweight crew socks are super versatile, or if you want something a little thicker for your winter boots, readers adore Darn Tough’s comfy boot socks . The midweight hiker crew sock is another recommended pick, with a great amount of padding and a range of great colors and patterns to choose from. 

Top Brands With Merino Wool Collections

While the following brands aren’t exclusive to merino wool, readers swear by the high-quality and adventure-ready merino wool pieces from these awesome brands!  

Terramar Merino Wool Thermal Pants | Sizes XS-XL

Terramar has made a name for itself in the TFG community for its outstanding thermal collection. While their silk thermals are super popular, readers have also raved about their merino wool pieces that are blended with microfibers to make them high-performance, soft as fleece, and super durable. 

The Thermawool Heavyweight thermal top and thermal bottoms are amazing in a range of cold temperatures. The brushed microfiber feel combined with flat seam construction to prevent chafing makes them beyond comfortable.

Terramar Ultra Merino Wool Hat

Terramar also makes merino wool glove liners that are super lightweight yet protective and touchscreen compatible. Their midweight ultra merino wool beanie is another accessory that’s perfect for the sporty traveler. 

Quince Australian Merino Wool Cable Sweater | Sizes XS-XL

Quince is a hugely popular brand among TFG readers, known for its high-quality, travel-friendly clothing at super affordable prices. Quince’s merino wool items are constantly recommended and praised for their softness, durability, and flattering fit. 

The brand’s merino wool cable sweater is warm yet breathable, with a chunky design and a relaxed fit that’ll style up any simple outfit! Wearers say it’s the perfect weight and easy to pack. For more layering options readers love, check out the ultra-chic merino wool half zip sweater and the cozy merino wool shirt jacket . 

Quince Merino Wool Shirt Jacket | Sizes XS-XL

Quince also makes merino wool performance gear, including long sleeve base layer tops and short sleeve base layer tops , which get rave reviews for their comfort and affordable prices. They also offer amazing merino ankle socks , crew socks , and hiking socks !

Allbirds Wool Runner 2

While they gained traction in the TFG community for their awesome merino wool sneakers, Allbirds also offers travel-friendly apparel and accessories that our readers love. This brand is all about sustainable manufacturing and incorporating natural fibers into its products, with Merino wool being one of them!

The Wool Runner sneakers are one of the most popular shoes on the blog, loved for their amazing support, durability, waterproof design, and merino wool blend that keeps them breathable and odor-resistant. One TFG reader says they’re super comfortable and are all she travels with! 

Allbirds Anytime Soft Merino Tee | Sizes XS-3XL

If you prefer a slip-on shoe, check out the Wool loungers — they’re cozy, comfortable, and have a cute, minimalist look. The Anytime soft merino tee is the perfect basic for active days, and its long sleeve counterpart has your back on chillier trips. 

Uniqlo Extra Fine Merino Turtleneck Sweater | Sizes XXS-XXL

When it comes to merino wool sweaters, readers are quick to recommend Uniqlo . This brand is known for making stylish, beautifully-tailored basics at affordable prices, and their popular sweaters are no different. One reader says merino wool from Uniqlo is great quality and will last for many years!

It doesn’t get more chic than Uniqlo’s extra fine merino turtleneck sweater , which is smooth and glossy, doesn’t pill, and is super easy to style. The similar merino crewneck sweater is just as polished and easy to pack.

Uniqlo Extra Fine Merino Mock Neck Sweater | Sizes XXS-XXL

Another adorable sweater option is the half sleeve mock neck sweater with fine ribbing and a flattering cut. 

Everlane Merino Wool Crewneck Sweater | Sizes XXS-XL

With timeless designs and high-quality construction, readers agree that Everlane clothing is long-lasting and forever chic without being overly trendy. The brand is also loved for its sustainable fabrics (including its regenerative-grown merino wool) and ethical manufacturing practices. It’s a frequently recommended brand within the TFG community, and its dreamy merino wool pieces stand out among the crowd.

The polished Good merino wool crewneck sweater makes a perfect cozy basic and layering piece for chilly adventures. Wearers say its relaxed, boxy cut is flattering and easy to style. It also comes in a mock neck version ! 

Everlane Merino Turtleneck Dress | Sizes XXS-XL

Their merino wool cardigan is stunning, cozy, and super versatile, too. More gorgeous merino wool pieces include the cotton-merino turtleneck dress which is beyond chic, the ultrafine merino ribbed crew t-shirt that’s form-fitting and great for layering, and the luxurious Good merino wool beanie . 

L.L. Bean Cresta High-Rise Slim Leg Pants | Sizes XS-XL

Consistently offering reliable basics for travel, L.L. Bean is a go-to brand for many readers. From base layers to sweaters, their merino wool pieces are durable, comfy, and cute! TFGs especially like them for outdoorsy adventures. 

The Cresta Midweight thermal top and thermal leggings come highly recommended. Made of 100% merino wool, they’re warming yet lightweight and breathable, and wearers say the slim, high-rise fit is perfect. 

L.L. Bean Signature Camp Merino Wool Sweater | Sizes XS-XL

The Signature Camp merino wool sweater is beautiful with a classic cut and a deliciously soft feel. The Waterfowl quarter zip sweater is another cute option that’s a tad sportier but still has that flattering, feminine look. The brand’s simple merino wool and tencel blend long-sleeve t-shirts are great for active days. 

Eileen Fisher Merino Jersey Turtleneck | Sizes XXS-3XL

Eileen Fisher

Eileen Fisher is a long-time favorite of TFGers, loved for its elegant and travel-friendly basics that are made from luxurious, natural fabrics. Their Regenerative + Responsible wool collection is not only stylish but also helps to restore grasslands in Patagonia and fight climate change. What’s not to love?! 

The Merino jersey turtleneck is streamlined and elevated, with plush fabric, a boxy fit, and rib trim. Their cropped mock neck sweater has a beautiful texture and looks amazing with high-waisted pants, whether dressed up or down. The merino jersey crew neck top is a winner, too. 

Eileen Fisher Merino Thermal Rib Hat

If you’re looking for some warm layering pieces, definitely check out the fine merino cardigan , which has a long and flowy silhouette. And if you’re traveling somewhere cold, Eileen Fisher’s merino thermal beanie , scarf , and gloves have you covered! 

AllSaints Gala Roll Neck Merino Sweater | Sizes XS-XXL

When it comes to modern, on-trend pieces that will instantly elevate any look, Allsaints totally delivers. This brand is particularly loved by readers for its dreamy collection of sweaters, including merino wool ones! And a major bonus — Allsaints’ wool is responsibly sourced.

The Gala roll neck relaxed merino sweater is a long, slouchy number with deep side slits and a turtleneck. Cute with everything from leggings to jeans to trousers, this 100% merino top is a head-turner. And it’s warm and comfy! 

All Saints Wasson Merino Waterfall Cardigan | Sizes XS-L

Slouchy sweaters give off that effortless, casually-cool vibe, and AllSaints does it right with another of their merino wool pieces, the wasson merino pirate cardigan is quite unique, with waterfall draping that you can tie at the front, and a soft, lightweight feel. 

Here’s a 10-step packing guide for a trip with mixed weather!

Nordstrom Rib Merino Wool Sweater | Sizes XXS-XXL

The Nordstrom brand is always a go-to with TFG readers for quality, yet chic-classic basics. They always have fabulous merino wool sweaters in stock that readers say hold up amazingly well, fit great, and look beautiful. 

Nordstrom’s Organic cotton & merino wool sweater is the perfect lightweight and airy blend that’s great for year-round warmth. The crewneck will look great with just about anything, too! This chunky mock neck sweater , made from a functional merino wool blend, is another cute pick. 

Caslon Merino Wool Blend Sweater | Sizes 1X-3X Plus

Caslon, which is a Nordstrom brand, also has a lot of great Merino wool pieces. The merino wool blend crewneck sweater (available in both standard and plus sizes!) has a simple, flattering cut and is offered in some fun, bright colors. It also comes in a v-neck version .

Best Merino Wool Brands Comparison Chart

Compass Rose Carryon Packing Cubes

How to Pack Your Merino Wool Clothing

When you’re ready to travel with your newly purchased items, start with  packing cubes ; they will seriously change the way you pack! We designed our own brand of slim packing cubes, with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything. See more in the  video  below.

Learn our packing hacks with packing cubes in this video !

We also put together a  five-part YouTube series  showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use  this  specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This method has helped many women travel carry-on only!

What do you thin k are the best merino wool brands out there? Sha re your thoughts with us below!

For more merino wool clothing, please read:

• Best Merino Wool Sweaters for Women
• Best Merino Wool Clothing for Women
• Want the Best Merino Wool T-Shirt for Travel?
• Best Merino Wool Leggings to Stay Warm

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The Best Merino Wool Shirts of 2024

Looking to upgrade your wardrobe? Check out our favorite merino wool shirts for summer and fall hiking, biking, and more.

Merino wool is a pretty magical fabric. It’s lightweight, it wicks away moisture and odors, and it helps thermoregulate (that is, it’s breathable). When it comes to outdoor wear, it’s dang near tough to beat.

That being said, there are some tradeoffs for this wonder textile. It can be more fragile and less durable, both in wearing and washing, which is why we considered both 100% merino wool layers and merino wool blends (with a majority of merino greater than 60%).

It’s not easy to find that perfect, comfortable yet functional, fits-great, do-it-all layer, but merino comes pretty darn close.

We tested dozens of merino wool shirts to find the best on the market, wearing them in all kinds of conditions and pushing the shirt’s limits. Here are our staff’s favorite merino tees — as well as some honorable mentions.

At the end of our selection, check out our in-depth buyer’s guide , comparison chart , and frequently asked questions section to guide you to your next wear-all-day shirt.

Editor’s Note: We updated our Merino Wool Shirts guide on January 22, 2024, to add two new worthy additions: the Ortovox 185 Rock’N’Wool Short Sleeve and the Ottie Merino T-Shirt .

• Best Overall Merino Wool Shirt: Icebreaker Tech Lite Crew II T-Shirt
• Best Budget Merino Wool Shirt: Ridge Merino Journey & Wander Wool Shirt
• Best Luxuriously Soft Merino Wool Shirt: Ibex 24-Hour Short Sleeve Tee
• Best Merino Wool Shirt for Hunting: KUIU ULTRA Merino 120 LT SS Crew-T
• Best Merino Wool Shirt for Travel : Unbound Merino Crew Neck T-Shirt
• Best Merino Wool Sun Hoodie: Ridge Merino Solstice Lightweight Pullover Hoodie

Icebreaker Tech Lite Crew II T-Shirt

• Material 100% 18.9-micron merino wool
• Sustainability certifications N/A
• Weight 5.3 oz.
• Special feature Underarm gussets for added mobility and reduced discomfort
• Size range XS-XL (women’s); S-XXL (men’s)
• Fit Regular

• UPF 20 protection
• Odor resistance
• Moisture-wicking properties
• Thinner than other comparable tees

Our staff testers love the Tech Lite II Crewe T-Shirt ($80) by icebreaker because we can wear it all year. In hot weather, this tee is light, breathable, airy, and made of 100% natural merino that has built-in odor-wicking properties. In cooler weather, it feels soft and comfortable as a base layer .

For a tee that can be used in any type of weather, it was easy for us to consider the Tech Lite II as the best merino wool shirt overall.

While comparing this tee to others that we had tested, we did feel that the Tech Lite II felt slightly thinner than other tees, which made us wary about its durability. However, after a few years worth of testing now, we’re comfortable with the quality and longevity.

Overall, we are impressed by the amount of use we get from this tee, regardless of the weather. We also really love the fit and coverage, especially the sleeve length on the women’s cut. While the Tech Lite II Crewe is a bit thinner for the price, the outstanding quality makes it a great buy.

Ridge Merino Journey and Wander Merino Wool Shirt

• Material 87% 17.5-micron merino wool, 13% nylon
• Weight 5.2 oz. (men's medium)
• Special feature Slightly longer cut in the torso than normal, nice drape
• Size range XS-XL (women’s); S-2XL (men’s)
• Fit Relaxed (women’s); Regular (men’s)

• Cozy soft to the touch
• Generous cut
• UPF 50+ sun protection
• Will shrink up a bit in the wash
• Sizing gives some people trouble

While other wools can be as coarse as 40 microns (think itchy grandma sweaters), merino wool can be as thin as 24 to 15 microns, which is exactly why the Ridge Merino Journey and Wander Merino Wool Shirts ($60) — made with 17.5-micron merino — are so dang buttery smooth. And at $60, these tees slide in far below other comparable merino shirts. Now a few seasons into wear, we can confidently anoint the Ridge Merino tees to the title of best budget in our review.

Mammoth Lakes-based Ridge Merino certainly has a thing for good wool, having crafted an entire line revolving around sheep’s clothing. The Journey tee is easily one of its most popular, and we found it’s for good reason. This tee is just all-around cozy.

Sewn with a double-stitched neck and sleeves, the Journey felt like it was made for the long run in our testing. Couple that with the nylon core-spun merino textile, and you’ve got a durable merino piece that’ll keep up for as long as you wear it. There’s also no external branding on this tee — which is something we’ve actually come to appreciate.

We particularly liked the cut of this tee, which is a bit slimmer and longer, though washing and drying will shrink the tee to some degree. This can cause a little confusion when trying to size the tee, but thankfully Ridge Merino provides a sizing chart to assist.

When comfort is king (but price is still a consideration), the Ridge Merino Journey and Wander Merino Wool Shirts are high on our list of most cozy merino wool shirts.

Ibex 24-Hour Short Sleeve Tee

• Material 100% 18.5-micron merino wool
• Sustainability certifications RWS and Woolmark-certified
• Weight 5.1 oz. (men’s small), 3.2 oz. (women’s small)
• Special feature Requires fewer washings

• One of the softest merino weaves we've worn to-date
• Moisture-wicking
• Lightweight 18.5-micron material
• Naturally odor-resistant
• Fits tighter than expected
• On the pricier end

Vermont-founded Ibex has been making merino apparel since 1997. After a short out-of-business stint (that then lasted 2 years), the Ibex brand is finally back. We’ve been testing a number of styles, including this 24-Hour Short Sleeve Tee ($90), which is made with 100% 18.5-micron merino wool and is just as soft and light as it sounds.

What we appreciated most about this tee: It regulates the body’s temperature in hot weather, is moisture- and odor-wicking, and is lightweight. Additionally, it feels nice against the skin, works as a standalone tee or base layer, and it’s easy to hand wash and hang dry, which is perfect for travel.

Our main warning with this tee is that it is more fitted than others. So, if you want a roomier fit or if you are in between sizes, be sure to size up.

If you want a tee that breathes, the 24-Hour Short Sleeve Tee is it. Synthetic performs by the numbers, but the feel of natural materials — merino wool in particular — is unparalleled. And no one does merino better than Ibex, so it’s great to see the brand in full swing!

And heads up: this Ibex merino tee comes in a tank (even lighter with 18.5-micron wool) and long-sleeve versions as well, giving you more options for style and fit.

KUIU ULTRA Merino 120 LT SS Crew-T

• Material Nuyarn merino (70% 17.5-micron merino, 30% nylon)
• Weight 4.3 oz.
• Special feature Increased durability without losing breathability
• Size Range S-3XL (men’s)

• Nuyarn construction; increased durability and stretch over typical merino
• Available in different camouflage prints
• No women’s cut is currently available

One of the downsides of the plushness of merino wool is its fragile nature — not something that’ll fly when scrubbing around in the brush. Thankfully the KUIU ULTRA Merino 120 LT SS Crew-T ($79) makes use of a new fabric tech that pushes the strength of merino to new heights and makes it perfect for your next hunting trip.

Nuyarn takes the soft touch of merino wool and spins it around a nylon core, greatly increasing its durability and stability. And since the fiber is drafted as opposed to twisted, it retains all of the high-loft softness and breathability we love about merino.

We loved the feel of the ULTRA Merino 120 LT SS in hand, and during use, it felt like a fabric we wouldn’t be worried about moving around in the woods with. KUIU claims its fabric has a 35% increase in stretch over normal merino, and we believe it.

Currently, there isn’t a women’s version of the ULTRA Merino 120 tee — the closest you’ll get is the Women’s ULTRA Merino 145 LS Crew ($79), a version with a thicker 145 g/m² fabric weight. We would love to see the thinner and more breathable fabric of this tee brought to the entire lineup.

Since the temperature-regulating qualities of merino are allowed to shine through, the KUIU ULTRA Merino 120 LT SS Crew-T would make a perfect tee for anyone looking for a standalone hot-weather or base-layer cold-weather hunting shirt.

Unbound Merino Crew Neck T-Shirt

• Material 100% merino
• Sustainability certifications Woolmark-certified and WRAP-certified production
• Weight 5.6 oz.
• Special feature Sustainably sourced wool from independent, mulesing-free wool in Australia
• Fit Classic

• Classic design that can be dressed up or down
• Soft to the touch
• Excellent odor resistance
• Ethically sourced wool
• Can’t be tumble dried

Unbound Merino says, “We want you to pack and own less,” and the brand’s Merino Crew Neck T-Shirts ($88) make that vision possible. With a classic cut, versatile color pallet, and no visible logos, the 100% merino tee is the ideal travel shirt. 

Our tester Katie Griffith wore this top for 5 days straight while hiking, climbing, running, and going out for drinks. Even after working up a sweat several times in the sun, the Merino Crew Neck held very little odor, especially when compared to a cotton tee. We were also impressed by the wrinkle resistance after days of use. The 17.5-micron merino is so comfortable that our tester fell asleep in this shirt several times and just continued wearing it the next day. 

We also appreciate Unbound’s commitment to ethical production alongside quality, with wool sourced from mulesing-free wool farms in Australia. Mulesing is a controversial practice that removes skin from a sheep’s backside to prevent parasitic infections. Unbound’s production facilities are also WRAP (Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production) certified, and their merino is Woolmark certified. 

Unbound warns to “never tumble dry” this top, making it a little more high maintenance than some merino shirts. Though with its excellent odor resistance, you’ll rarely have to wash it. With its simple design, it can easily transition from sightseeing or hiking to an evening out. If you want to pack a single t-shirt for a week-long trip, look no further than the Unbound Merino Crew Neck .

Ridge Merino Solstice Lightweight Pullover Hoodie

• Material (m)Force Merino – 87% 17.5-micron merino wool, 13% nylon
• Weight 8.7 oz. (men's medium), 7.5 oz. (women's medium)
• Special feature Loose drape aids in air movement through the hoodie
• Size range XS-XL (women's); S-XXL (men's)
• Fit Relaxed

• Comfortable drop hem and loose fit
• Helmet-compatible hood
• Thumb loops keep sleeves in place
• Not impervious to holes

Our Senior Editor Nick Belcaster donned the Ridge Merino Solstice Lightweight Pullover Hoodie ($85) for a romp on Iceland’s Laugavegur Trail last summer and came away sold. Long an adherent to using sun hoodies for hiking, this was the first merino wool cut he had tried, and reported “killer breathability, quick drying, and just a nice loose drape to the fit.”

Made with a 17.5-micron merino wool that’s been blended with 13% nylon for strength, the Solstice hits about the perfect ratio in our books when it comes to adding a little durability to the merino garment, without totally diluting the natural properties you’re looking to hold onto. Ridge Merino’s wool comes from the land of the long white cloud, and is sourced from Kiwis in the McKenzie Basin.

While sun protection typically isn’t a priority for hikes across Iceland’s highlands, our testing with this hoody yielded an out-of-character three full days of UV, and we were pleased to be able to tuck away under the voluminous hood.

The sleeves on the Solstice are also cut a bit on the longer end, and are finished off with low-profile thumb loops to keep the sleeve ends over the backs of your hands. Even breaking a sweat couldn’t overwhelm the Solstice, which moved moisture out of the hoody and kept the funk off us after the full 35 miles.

Alas, everything has a limit, and the end of our hike was marked by a small wear hole in the right sleeve. Not surprising after three days of hard use, but it goes to show that merino will need to be treated with extra care to ensure that it goes the distance. We put the estimated life span of this hoody at one good thru-hike — which for most folks will be plenty long. Our testing will continue with it until we find the true end of this hoody.

For those looking for the ultimate sun protection top that doesn’t inhibit breathability, the Ridge Merino Solstice sun hoody provides full coverage in a premium merino weave.

Smartwool Merino Short Sleeve Tee

• Material 87% merino wool, 13% nylon
• Weight 3.6 oz.
• Specific feature Comes in plant-based tie-dyed options
• Size range XS-3X (women's); SM-XXL (men's)
• Fit Slim (women’s); Body enhancing (men’s)

• Durability from nylon spun core
• Moisture management
• UPF 20+ protection
• Slightly odd sizing

Smartwool doesn’t make just socks; it makes all sorts of apparel, like the Merino Short Sleeve Tee ($80). This moisture-wicking tee kept us cool on warmer-weather hikes but also offered good coverage.

This layer is a super-comfortable piece at a reasonable price and is now more sustainably made. In terms of construction, we like that it is made with 87% merino with a nylon-spun core, striking a good balance between soft, stretchy, breathable, and durable.

We also like that the layer was durable when packed, worn, and washed multiple times over the few months we tested. This tee has a lot to offer while still being reasonably priced, making it a great option for those who want a budget-friendly tee.

Despite loving that this tee runs taller for those with a longer torso, we did discover that the sizing for different body types was a bit trickier than other merino tees we’ve tested — possibly due to some versions of the tee being colored with plant-based dye.

However, after finding the right fit, we actually enjoyed the options of plant-based colors, which make this tee a unique departure from the standard black or gray hues we usually see in merino layers. And who doesn’t love tie-dye?

If you want to keep on the go while still remaining stylish, look no further than the Smartwool Merino Short Sleeve Tee .

Patagonia Capilene Cool Merino Shirt

• Material 65% merino wool, 35% recycled polyester
• Sustainability certifications RWS-certified wool and made Fair-Trade certified
• Weight 3.1 oz.
• Special feature Side vents with a subtle backdrop
• Size Range XS-2XL (men’s & women’s)

• Reasonably priced
• Odor resistant
• Good for various temperatures
• Signs of pilling and snags after washing
• Marginally rougher than 100% merino wool

Testing the Patagonia Capilene Cool Merino Shirt ($69) exceeded our expectations, especially for the price. This shirt is a blend of 65% RWS-certified merino wool and 35% polyester, which kept us cool — as the name suggests — while hiking in balmy summer temperatures. Yet when we added another layer, it kept us comfortable when the air got chilly.

Another thing we appreciated about this shirt is how lightweight, airy, and not quite as sheer it is as other merino tops — an easy standalone top for various activities. Additionally, after wearing it all day and underneath a pack while backpacking, it stayed surprisingly odor-free. In fact, it easily made it on our list of go-tos for multiple-day excursions.

Unfortunately, this top isn’t perfect. We found signs of pilling and snags after a couple of washes. However, given its reasonable price and the fact it requires fewer washes in between wears, we still like it. And since it has a sizable percentage of polyester, it’s not exactly as soft as other 100% merino shirts, but still, we think it’s pretty soft considering. For a budget merino shirt that has a higher percentage of wool, consider the Ridge Merino Journey and Wander shirts as excellent alternatives.

If you want a shirt that fits comfortably, doesn’t impede mobility, is versatile in both cool and warmer temperatures, and is reasonably priced, then the Capilene Cool Merino Shirt is a strong contender, in our opinion.

Ortovox 185 Rock’N’Wool Short Sleeve

• Material 100% 19-micron merino wool
• Sustainability certifications RWS and Ortovox Wool Promise-certified, Fair Wear produced
• Special feature Slick asymmetrical design and long drape
• Fit Fitted with long torso length

• Snug fit for active use
• Many different color/design options with asymmetric patterning
• More durable weight of merino will last longer than lighter tees
• Long drape can be a bit too long on some bodies
• Pricier than many like tees

Billed as an all-around base layer for mountainous adventures, the Ortovox 185 Rock’N’Wool Short Sleeve ($100) is a 100% merino cut done up in a funky asymmetric design that we grew to love. The shirt clings close for active pursuits, and an extra-long cut hem means the tee won’t pull up when executing a tough move on rock or in the skin track. While wearing it this winter, we couldn’t even feel it beneath our layers.

Ortovox as a brand has been big on merino wool for decades, and that obviously hasn’t been a passing interest. The stuff is in nearly all the apparel they churn out, including the soft cheek inserts on their ski jackets, and it’s done just as well in the Rock’N’Wool — using a very fine 185 g/m² 19-micron weave.

This merino is fairly well scrutinized for sustainability, as well, having passed the brand’s internal Ortovox Wool Promise standard. These requirements ensure that their Tasmanian Merino comes from farmers who never practice mulesing, care for the land, and are entirely transparent about textile production.

That merino is put to work in a snug, athletic cut tee that slides effortlessly underneath our layering systems for winter wear. The asymmetric-sewn panels don’t seem to have much use other than aesthetics, but we liked the detail anyway, and with 7 colorways in both men’s and women’s (not to mention long-sleeve cuts ), it’s a colorful respite from the muted tones that many other merino tees are offered in.

The $100 price tag is undoubtedly owed to the 100% merino build (and the fact that Ortovox is a Swiss brand), but for a merino tee that we’d suggest wearing as base layer more than anything else, the extensive durability, and we feel good about the value on the Ortovox 185 Rock’N’Wool . Other fitness-forward slim merino cuts include the Smartwool Merino Short Sleeve Tee and Patagonia Capilene Cool Merino Shirt , which both cost a good bit less.

Minus33 Chocorua and Ossipee Crew

• Weight 8 oz. (women’s medium), 9.6 oz. (men’s large)
• Special feature UPF 50+
• Size range XS-3XL (women’s) XS-6X (men’s)
• Fit Standard with room to breathe

• Super soft fabric
• Comfortable, flattering women’s fit
• Wide size range, especially in men’s model
• Not ideal for active use in warm weather

When the temperature starts to drop, you’ll stay cozy in this 100% merino long-sleeved crew. With a knit of 235 g/m², this top is a bit heavier than others on this list, making it a great option for cooler weather. We mainly wore it as a low-profile mid-layer, but it could also be used as a base-layer during winter activities like skiing or snowshoeing. 

The Minus33 Ossipee and Chocorua Crew ($80) is loosely fitted, making it easy to pull on over a light layer. Tester and climbing guide Katie Griffith brought it along on cloudy cragging days to stay warm while belaying, and also wore it hiking during a typical overcast and rainy June day in the Pacific Northwest. Overall a big fan of the Ossipee, Griffith did note that when the sun came out, she quickly became a bit too warm while active in this mid-weight top. 

The 100% merino wool fabric is super soft against the skin; we forgot to take it off at night and ended up wearing it as a pajama top several times. The Ossipee crew can also join the rest of your laundry in the washer and dryer, making it a pretty low-maintenance wool piece. 

When you’re moving fast during warmer weather, Minus33 recommends its micro or lightweight wool tops. But the Midweight Ossipee and Chocorua Crew are perfect for winter sports or activities like belaying or fishing that don’t require high output.

Bombas Merino Wool Crew Neck Long Sleeve T-Shirt

• Material 50% merino wool, 50% TENCEL Lyocell
• Weight Unavailable
• Special feature Thumb loops
• Size Range S-3XL (men’s); XS-2XL (women’s)

• UPF protection
• Incredibly soft
• Flattering color options
• Tight-fitting in arms and chest
• Lighter colors are see-through

Like Smartwool, Bombas is another brand known for making high-quality socks — but they also craft other apparel, like the Merino Wool Crew Neck Long Sleeve T-Shirt ($74). Right off the bat, we loved the silky-soft feel of this tee, which felt like a plush pajama top.

That’s thanks to its 50% merino and 50% TENCEL Lyocell blend, which not only makes it feel incredibly comfortable but also aids in its ability to dry quickly when sweating or battling light precipitation. It also contains cooling elements that are perfect for hiking in warmer temperatures. Other bonuses we admired were its UV protection properties and thumb holes for properly staying put underneath layers or under gloves.

Oh, and we can’t forget about the flattering colors this merino tee comes in — welcome additions to the otherwise standard black and gray merino shirts. Unfortunately, we would be remiss if we didn’t discuss a few of the tee’s shortcomings. For starters, we weren’t thrilled that this midweight top is quite see-through, especially in the lighter colors. Since it claims to be made for layering, however, it’s not a problem with that in mind.

Another issue was its odd fit. We found it a bit tight in the arms and bust area and too loose everywhere else. If you’re finding the sizing too tight as we did, we suggest sizing up.

After taking a moment to select a size that works for you, you will be happy to have this ridiculously soft and warm Merino Wool Crew Neck Long Sleeve for your cold-weather hiking, biking, or camping adventures.

Ottie Merino T-Shirt

• Material 100% 165 g/m² merino
• Sustainability certifications RWS-certified and Australian-made certified production
• Special feature Longer cut doesn't ride up while wearing a pack
• Size range XS-XXL (women's); S-XXL (men's)
• Fit Relaxed (women's & men's)

• Relaxed cut is airy and breathable
• Australian-sewn
• Affordable pricing for merino wool
• Not the easiest to find available

We’ve only tested one item from Australia-born and bred brand Ottie Merino, but that one  Merino T-shirt  ($63) really knocked it out of the park. The texture is soft and light, but not too soft that it feels fragile and can’t handle abrasion or hiking with a pack on.

Managing Editor Mary Murphy brought this merino tee with her to Asia this past summer, and was thankful to have it on her back, even in 91 F heat. Compared to similar short-sleeved merino tees like those from Ibex or Icebreaker, the Ottie tee has a less feminine cut and tailoring and a more relaxed fit. It’s slightly longer in the hem, which she appreciated.

For more performance, hiking, and all-day use, we’d pick this tee in a heartbeat. For a more fitted and flattering town-to-trail look with similar quality fabric, we’d give the edge to Ibex’s 24-Hour tee. We found it didn’t wrinkle nearly as much when packed as some other tees we’ve tried. And unlike many brands, Ottie’s fabric is made in Melbourne, as is its products: 100% Australian local merino!

Another perk: The Ottie Merino T-Shirt rings in at a very competitive and low price (for merino) at $63. Being so affordable, why isn’t it the best budget pick? Availability. As a direct-to-consumer brand out of Oz, it can be a bit tough for Yanks to get our mitts on tees like this. But rest assured, if you snag one, you won’t regret it.

Voormi River Run Wool Hoodie

• Material 100% 100 g/m2 merino
• Weight 7 oz. (men’s large); 5 oz. (women’s medium)
• Special feature Full-cover hoodie
• Size Range XS-XL (women’s); S-2XL (men’s)
• Fit Athletic (women’s); Relaxed (men’s)

• Built-in thumb loops
• Ultralight weight
• Prone to snagging

The Voormi River Run Hoodie ($139) is made of 100% merino wool, but with a unique blend and construction. This USA-made hoodie uses an ultralight Precision Blended Wool, a fabric weighing under 100 g/m². That’s 30 to 50 grams lighter than the leading merino fabrics currently on the market, Voormi claims.

When packing and when wearing, we can attest that this hoodie is light. In fact, it’s so light and versatile that we’re not sure where we haven’t worn this Voormi layer — paddleboarding, camping, climbing, snowshoeing, kayaking, hiking, and running errands. And with the amount of time spent under the sun, the UPF 50-rated protection of this sun protection shirt is a welcome feature.

So what are our cons? It’s crazy ultralight and soft, meaning it’s prone to snag easily, which also doesn’t bode too well with the high cost. But ultimately, with the amount of wear this hoodie has gotten, it’s well worth the investment. If you’re after a merino sun hoody that’s got a longer lifespan (at a very slight weight ding), the Ridge Merino Solstice Hoody is highly comparable and a bit less liable to snags.

The River Run Hoodie was designed with everything from fly fishing day trips to multiday river trips in mind, which is one of the main reasons we love it so much. So, if you are heading up into alpine territory, or looking for a merino base layer for fall, it’s a good choice for that as well.

Merino Wool Shirt Comparison Chart

How We Tested Merino Wool Shirts

Folks at GearJunkie have been dyed-in-the-wool fans of merino since well, forever . Merino wool has been the premium activewear textile of choice for many GearJunkie testers, and we’ve used shirts made from the material for years. In order to find the best merino wool shirts, we raided our closets, pulled out our most trusted tops, and put them to work.

On top of that, we also surveyed the market for the latest and greatest merino wool options — finding new technologies like Nuyarn — and added them into the mix. Our search for the best merino wool shirts available today began with eight woolen tops in 2021, which we selected for their broad appeal and availability, and then set about wearing them threadbare in our search for the softest, most breathable, and hardiest merino wool shirts out there today.

In 2022, our horizons broadened when Senior Editor Nick Belcaster and contributor Rebecca Ross brought in a new slate of five additional merino wool shirts and added an award-winning choice for hunters. Our most recent testing saw merino wool shirts used across the planet, from the backs of professional climbing guides in the granite crags of the North Cascades to the world-famous Laugavegur Trail in Iceland. Our awards once again expanded to include a merino wool sun hoody, as well as a handful of other exceptional shirts from upstart companies focused solely on merino.

Our testers included outdoors folk from across the country, who hit the hills and trails decked out in merino in order to test fit, comfort, style, and durability. We paid special attention to finding layers that had a perfect balance of the softness of merino while still maintaining some strength over the long run. Our longest-running merino pieces now have three years of use on them, and we’ll continue to test them to learn more about their ultimate longevity.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Merino Wool Shirt

What is merino.

Merino wool is a natural fiber that is grown by Merino sheep, which are thought to be the oldest breed of sheep in the world and have adapted to thrive in harsh environments, such as the highlands of New Zealand, Australia, and South America. Their wool is much finer and softer than other strong wool breeds, and when woven into garments provides a number of other benefits that we all can appreciate.

For one, merino wool has a unique scale-like structure that aids it in wicking moisture away from the skin — something that synthetic fibers aren’t great at. These structures are also the reason merino wool is so good at temperature regulation, with sweat being transported away when it’s hot, and insulating air being trapped next to skin when it’s cold.

Merino wool also isn’t bogged down by the typical funk of synthetic garments, and is amenable to being layered over top of due to its breathability. There are some tradeoffs, however, which come in the form of overall durability (full merino weaves can develop holes over time), and price. It isn’t cheap to produce hard-working fabrics, and you’ll certainly fork over the dough for the good stuff.

Sustainable Wool Sourcing

Merino wool comes from sheep, and since we want to treat our woolen friends with all of the respect they deserve, the vast majority of merino wool garment manufacturers are now demanding wool that has been produced in sustainable and ethical ways. One practice of concern has been mulesing, which removes skin from the hind end of sheep to limit infections, and has been banned in New Zealand. Thankfully, many manufacturers now guarantee their merino to come from mulesing-free farms.

Because of this demand for sustainable wool, a number of different non-profit entities offer certifications and audits of the merino wool supply chain. One such is the Woolmark Company , which is an Australian non-profit that tests merino wool to ensure quality, durability, and traceability. Another is the ZQ Program , which ensures that merino sheep under their certification are treated ethically, are never mulesed, and that the environment is taken into consideration at all steps of the fiber-production process.

Finally, the Responsible Wool Standard , or RWS, is another global certification that ensures that the entire supply chain from beginning to end upholds the tenets of animal welfare protection, land preservation, and working conditions, and is all audited by third-party certification bodies. It is important to note that while some companies may not advertise their tees to meet these standards, many still do — they just haven’t undergone the specific certification process.

100% Merino and Merino Blend s

The decision to go full-merino or with a blend will be a personal preference. That said, there are certain things that 100% merino wool is hands-down good at. First, 100% merino wool provides a more next-to-skin feel than a merino blend, especially those that have a higher synthetic content. Second, merino wool offers natural antibacterial, UV protection, and moisture-wicking properties that synthetics don’t naturally have.

However, when it comes to a merino blend, there are certain beneficial features, such as tending to be cheaper and easily outlasting their more fragile counterparts. Simply: adding smaller percentages of synthetics can help to shore up the deficiencies of merino, without totally stripping out the benefits.

If you want a merino layer for hiking, hunting, or just spending time outside, consider all the uses 100% merino wool has to offer. And if you’re investing in a merino shirt for, say, a rugged backpacking trip or rock climbing, or if durability is of high importance, then go for a merino blend.

Also, if you are brand new to merino and just want to try it out and see what all the fuss is about, a merino blend can be a bit more wallet-friendly the first time around.

Polyester: Polyester is a manmade material that has much better dry times than merino wool and resists shrinking in the wash — something merino wool struggles with. A blend can offer a textile with components that complement each other so you end up with a garment that works for many situations.

Most merino wool shirts tend to use as high of a percentage of merino wool as they can get away with while still receiving the benefits of polyester. We prefer at least 75% merino wool in our blended fabrics. In our testing, it was no surprise the 100% merino shirts were the softest of the bunch.

Nylon: Another manmade fiber, nylon can add impressive durability to fabric blends. Garments like the Ridge Merino Journey Merino Wool Shirt incorporate a percentage of nylon into their weave and gain strength in return. It doesn’t take much to move the needle in terms of added durability, and we found a 20-30% nylon blend to be preferable.

Technologies like the Nuyarn used in the KUIU ULTRA Merino 120 LT SS Crew-T draft merino wool around a nylon core in order to offer the benefits of nylon while avoiding compressing the merino wool. Many other brands also offer similar nylon/merino blends, all with the same effect.

TENCEL Lyocell: A branded fiber that comes from the pulp of eucalyptus trees, Lyocell is similar to rayon in construction but offers a highly sustainable process where both solvent and water are recycled during the weaving.

Garments that use Lyocell in their blends have high-strength properties due to the high tenacity of the fabric.

Thickness and Weight

Another important aspect to consider when shopping for a merino wool layer is thickness and weight.

When it comes to weight, you’ll come across something written as GSM or g/m² — the weight of the material. Simply put, the lower the number, the thinner the material. For all-year-round layers, you’ll want something on the lower side, like around 120 to 180 g/m². And for extra warmth, you’ll want to go higher.

As for thickness, it’s all about the microns (µm) — the diameter of a single wool fiber. The lower the number, the thinner it is. It also means it’s softer and more expensive. In our opinion, the lower the micron, the more you’ll want to live in it, but you’ll need to take extra precautions due to its delicateness. For reference, the average human hair is about 70 microns thick, while the average merino wool fiber is between 15-20 microns.

Fine merino: Fine merino represents the division between true merino fibers and fibers that are sourced from merino sheep that have been crossbred with another breed for enhanced durability (but greater itchiness). These fine fibers are typically between 20 and 18 µm, and are the greatest portion of wool shorn from merino sheep. Durable shirts like the Ibex 24-Hour Short Sleeve Tee are made with merino in this tier.

Superfine merino: Superfine merino fibers take the softness up another notch, and are typically 16-18 µm. These fibers rival cashmere for its plushness, and will come with some additional cost for garments made with it. Some of our favorite merino shirts like the Unbound Merino Crew Neck and Ridge Merino Solstice Lightweight Pullover Hoodie are made with superfine merino.

Ultrafine merino: The most premium merino wool, these fibers are sub 16 µm and are rather delicate for true everyday wear for outdoors folk. But for the money ($$$), this is the best stuff you can get your mitts on.

Fit and Styles

We included a variety of shirts on this list: tees, long-sleeve tops, and even some hoodies. Each has advantages, depending on the type of activity you intend to engage in.

For those who need something for primarily cold temperatures, a layer that is tighter-fitting with loads of mobility that won’t feel restrictive under an extra one or two layers is recommended. Others who want something that can be worn all year, like our staffers, should go for something looser with a more relaxed fit.

However, we did not include all of the merino wool layers under the sun. We focused on shirts because they are versatile for a variety of weather conditions and activities. Some of the layers we tested are a little more sporty, while others, like the Unbound Merino Crew Neck , have a classic cut that’s a bit more versatile. If you are looking for winter-specific merino base layer sets , zip-up merino layers , or merino underwear (yes, it’s a thing), we’ve got separate coverage on that, too.

Layers that come in an assortment of colors are always welcome — they mix things up from the monotonous black and gray we often see. However, while we love mixing things up, our testers have routinely noticed layers that come in pastel colors tend to be sheerer than navy, black, and dark gray.

Keep this in mind if you don’t want your undergarments showing through, unless you strictly use them as a base layer and will always be covered.

When you buy a merino wool shirt or garment, you aren’t just buying, you are investing. Investing in a higher-quality, naturally odor-wicking, and hopefully much longer-lasting layer. Synthetics are great, and there can be high-quality synthetic blends that have the same properties, but many folks swear by merino.

If you know you want a natural fabric that comes with all the soft, cooling, and wicking properties that merino has, keep the price in mind ($80 for a tee?!). It sounds ridiculous at first, but the price does truly reflect the quality of merino wool fabric.

Why the higher price in the first place? Merino wool is a more expensive fabric — more time-intensive to produce, expensive to import, and more fragile to work with compared to thicker synthetic yarns. So, we always weigh that factor when purchasing anything made with merino.

Merino wool is a natural material, meaning it doesn’t come from manmade plastics or synthetics. It’s lightweight and soft to the touch. It wicks away moisture and odors, and it helps regulate body temperature. All of that wrapped into a single fabric. No wonder humans have been using and wearing wool since 10,000 BCE.

However, because of merino’s great properties, it is in high demand and usually more expensive than other fabrics. The narrow sourcing and supply chain of merino wool also contributes to its market value. The majority of the wool on the market is produced in Australia, Argentina, and New Zealand .

In simple terms, yes. When it comes to exercising or spending lots of time in the outdoor elements, double yes. Merino is better in the sense that it is a natural and porous fiber. So, if you are sweating, that sweat can escape — this is what makes merino a natural at regulating moisture and body temp, wicking away odor, and cooling.

Cotton is an especially thick synthetic fabric, much different than lightweight or nano-spun synthetics, and much different than merino wool.

Heavy wool blankets or wool-lined slippers might evoke ideas of itchy, coarse fabric, but put those thoughts aside — merino wool is different. Merino wool is notoriously fine — with fine, fragile, and soft fibers.

Merino garments are even measured by the tiny diameters of the fibers, called microns. Most merino wool shirts we tested used merino wool that measured between 17.5 and 20 microns.

And the smaller the microns, the finer the fabric. If you are looking for the softest merino layer money can buy, you’ll want to look somewhere in the 15- to 17-micron fabric range.

Merino wool (wool from a sheep) naturally traps air and retains heat to keep you warm. But, thanks again to its porous fiber nature, it’s still breathable at the same time.

The fact that merino wool both retains heat and wicks away sweat — it works to both warm you up and cool you down — is one of its best properties. Wool keeps you cool by letting sweat escape through the fibers and away from your skin and body. This means you won’t get clammy or chills, and it also helps with wicking body odor.

Other fibers — synthetics or plant-based fabrics — are not as fine, porous, or breathable. They’ll do the job, but not as good a job. (That being said, our staff has a great time testing the latest in bio-based fabrics — unique layers sewn with everything from bamboo to hemp to corn.)

You’ll want to treat your merino shirts and layers with care. Because merino is a natural fiber, you also don’t want to use bleach, scents, or fabric softeners that can clog up the wool and prevent merino from doing all the things it does naturally.

Washing every few wears — sometimes even just once or twice a month — with cold or warm water and a mild soap is all you need. Even when we wear a lot of merino wool when outdoors, we try to wash sparingly. And we always air dry or hang it to dry.

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Mary Murphy is the Managing Editor of GearJunkie. She has been writing about hiking, running, climbing, camping, skiing, and more for seven years, and has been on staff at GearJunkie since 2019. Prior to that, Mary wrote for 5280 Magazine in Denver while working as an outdoor instructor teaching climbing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and mountain biking. Based in Denver, Colorado, Murphy is an avid hiker, runner, backpacker, skier, yogi, and pack-paddleboarder. Mary also serves as the leader of AllGear Digital’s DEI Committee.

Katie is a freelance writer and gear tester with GearJunkie. She has been writing about climbing, mountaineering, and backpacking for five years. In addition to freelance writing, she teaches clinics and runs women’s climbing events as a guide and instructor for She Moves Mountains. Based in Joshua Tree, CA, and Index, WA, Katie loves climbing splitter cracks in the mountains, riding her bicycle, and cooking yummy food for her friends.

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Merino Tech vs Smartwool: A Few Important Notes

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by Xander | Clothing Style , Workwear & Outdoors

The first time I and my significant other saw Merino.Tech was back in mid-2019. MT was unknown back then; just a few dozen reviews online.

Well, things have changed. Currently, it’s one of the leading budget merino wool brands.

Between Merino Tech vs Smartwool, a  veteran  in merino wear – what would the verdict be?

To find out, we tested out some Merino.tech staples like their long-sleeve bases:

• This base layer  for women
• And this one for men

Decent stuff for the price, in all honesty:

Comfy, warm, more durable than Merino.Tech options. These leggings are the creme de la creme of their niche. Vibrant, unique patterns for those into stylish clothing.

For us, the comparison boils down to 4 key differences:

• Merino.Tech has a very limited assortment and covers mostly base layer options. –
• Smartwool’s merino wool is less itchy. As a whole, the brand’s clothes feature better stitching –  especially the fantastic bottoms or men’s crews . –
• Smartwool designs and patterns are way more vibrant. A lot more accessories (top sellers like this beanie , scarves etc.) too. –
• Merino.Tech is significantly cheaper but is limited to mostly 165 and 250g/m2 density.

So, based on our experience, our recommendations would be…

➥ Merino.Tech fits the bill with casual base layers for milder weather/on a budget:

Inexpensive option for casual/home setups or milder weather. Acceptably smooth - and you get some basic freebie socks too.

Cheap and decently snug option. Lots of colors to choose from, but they're all rather plain. Great for casual use.

➥ Smartwool is the choice for a more active, outdoors-fueled lifestyle. The brand’s clothing is softer, more durable, and often gorgeous style-wise.

Less fraying, less piling, and better weave-work is what wins us as merino users. Smartwool has it all.

We fully vouch for the brand’s socks ( see examples ). Coming in way more cuts than MT, they don’t itch, hold strong, and come in exciting designs.

Warmer, more durable, and significantly outperforming any budget merino options in cold weather. The perfect hiking sock companion - which also looks kickass!

Great 1/4 zip outerwear for mountain hiking, trekking and other outdoor activities in harsher weather. Remember to layer it beneath an outer shell during a cold winter!

Table of Contents

Merino Tech vs Smartwool: Key observations

OK, so there are several crucial points to discuss here, namely:

• How rich/diverse the product catalog of these two brands is. –
• How do they approach the designing process (quality and appearance). –
• Difference in practical applications (this involves merino density, what situations are they most suitable for, how the material feels etc.)

Let’s start with…

Differences in product line-ups

As I mentioned earlier, we tested Merino.Tech’s long-sleeve base layers ( see them here ). The brand actually exclusively focuses on base merino wool options.

There are some mid-layers, but nothing heavier or outer shells like Smartwool’s jackets like this one .

MT sticks to only a few options for men and women – long sleeves, T-shirts, polo shirts (men), and bottoms. From the accessories, they only have classic hiking socks and basic neck warmers.

This scarcity is a bit disappointing!  Compared to Merino.Tech, other budget brands like Meriwool ( read our review ) feature way more merino options, including accessories.

As a veteran in the niche, Smartwool has everything from base layers to heavy layers; from crews to fleeces/zip hoodies; from beanies to gloves or balaclavas.

The staple beanie for cold winters. 100% merino wool. Breathable, extra warm, and plenty of sizing/color options to pick from.

You get outer shells and jackets, too: heavier, extreme-ready garments to protect you from harsh winters.

We’re huge fans of SW accessories. This neck gaiter , for example, has been a staple during tough winters for us.

Even in the underwear department, Smartwool goes above and beyond in terms of options. From bikinis and thongs for women to boxer briefs or shorts for men.

Approaching the design process

We weren’t that impressed with how Merino.Tech stitching played out. Some thinner Smartwool products are also problematic, but in general, Smartwool does the stitching right.

This goes a long way in terms of durability even after active use/frequent washes.

Color and pattern options are also something important. Some people prefer plain designs, but for others, merino clothing is the perfect way to express their outdoorsy spirit.

Merino.Tech clothes offer many color variations, but they’re all simple and plain. In comparison, Smartwool mixes classic looks with some more daring designs.

Two of our favorite Smartwool looks:

• For women, the Jade Marble leggings
• For men, the Twilight Blue socks

Even plain-colored options are often mixed to achieve a more stylish feel.

On applications, feel & practical concerns

Smartwool uses denser merino wool. Aside from being warmer, it’s also less itchier than most budget options – and that includes Merino.Tech, too.

The denser merino used makes Smartwool a better option for true outdoor adventures. Merino.Tech might not cut it out in more challenging weather conditions.

MT has chosen an interesting approach. Most base layers that focus on the skin-thin experience are around 150g/m2. Merino.Tech’s bases start from 165g/m2, and they go up to 250g/m2 which is classic mid-layer thickness.

Update:  They’ve also included a limited assortment of 320g/m2 long sleeves – check them here .

The Merino.Tech approach is both good and bad simultaneously!

It’s good in the sense that casual users on a budget can get a ‘thicker’ option. It can be bad because some more active-oriented people (biking, jogging, etc.) would prefer an extra-thin, skin-feel option which 150g/m2 pretty much achieves.

165g/m2 base layers might be slightly off the mark for people looking for ultra-lightweight merino options.

The bottom line is, Smartwool clothing feels better and performs better in more extreme conditions . The brand’s catalog and wool quality are more suited to pickier, more adventurous/outdoorsy customers.

Merino.Tech is great for casual urban use (or home use) in milder weather conditions.

Great for mountain hiking, trekking and other outdoor activities in harsher weather. Remember to layer it beneath an outer shell during winters.

Analyzing authenticity: Is Merino.Tech a good brand?

Newcomer budget brands can be a minefield. There’s been way too many of these popping up in the merino industry over the past few years. I’m sure you’re aware of review bombing and, well, the general practice of fake reviews.

Sure, retailers/marketplaces try to curb this practice, but it never goes away.

Aside from me and my SO testing out some Merino.Tech bases, I decided to run a Fakespot analysis on a whim. The results look decent, with the adjusted rating being a B. W ay better than the standard.

• Woolx vs Smartwool: Discussing Some Details - October 4, 2023
• Best Struts For Honda Accord & Element: What Works - September 22, 2023
• Bilstein vs Monroe Shocks: My Opinion On What Works Best - September 19, 2023

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| Hi! I'm Xander. A gearhead (two decades of tinkering around) & outdoors enthusiast.

| I'm particular about suspension, carburetors, exhausts & merino-related stuff. |

| Stylethority is a space to share my observations. Hopefully - to help you out too. Read the About Us for more. I started an Instagram too. |

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“The perfect T-shirt can see you through almost any situation, and Unbound makes a strong bid for the title with their chic merino designs.”

“this shirt is capable of handling just about any terrain. this is the go-to shirt for everything from the trail to the beach to the bar for happy hour.”, “i may hold off on washing this t-shirt for another few weeks. it miraculously looks (and smells) like it was just cleaned.”, “these tees have a sophisticated european elegance to them, thanks to both the material and design. just looking at them makes you feel chic.”, “between the flattering fit and the classic style, it's a great option for travel.”, best sellers.

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Unbound Merino’s shirts are absolutely perfect for travel – good in every situation. They’ve simplified my packing so much that I’m now a carry-on traveler for the first time in my life!

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Having an every day outfit I feel good in reduces cognitive fatigue and allows me to put all my focus on the people I love and the things I want to accomplish.

Can wear a dozen times without washing. Just hang on a hook to let sweat dry and it’s as good as new. This thing is magic.

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Unbound Merino performs as promised, and has totally simplified how I pack when I travel the world. The shirts are AWESOME and the underwear feels like having your balls cradled by the hands of angels.

I’ve worn one Unbound Merino T-shirt for most of the 18 days I’ve been traveling through Hong Kong and Thailand. Super impressed that this shirt does as promised, it doesn’t smell at all despite no washing.

Merino wool is nature's miracle fabric, doesn't smell.

Stays fresh and odor free for weeks.

Regulates your temperature

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You’ll be dry and comfortable quickly.

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It’s good to go whenever you need it.

Frequently asked questions

How do i clean my merino wool clothing.

When you decide it’s time for a wash, please turn your Unbound Merino clothing inside out to prevent pilling and follow the specific care instruction symbols on your clothing tag. You can also hand wash your clothing, which can be easier and quicker when traveling. When you’re done, squeeze out excess water but do not twist or wring.

It’s always best to lay your clothing flat on a towel or dry rack to air dry. Never tumble dry Merino wool or it will shrink. Should pilling occur, try washing your clothing with a pair of denim jeans (just make sure to close the zippers) and over time, the shorter wool fibers causing the pilling will pull away on their own.

What's the Unbound Merino guarantee?

We stand by all of the clothing we sell. If you are not satisfied with the performance of your Merino wool clothing within 90 days of delivery date, we will happily offer you a full refund. If your clothing does not stand up to the rigors of normal wear and tear, we will replace it.

You can also return clothing that you purchased directly from unboundmerino.com as long as it is unworn, unwashed, and in the original condition in which it was delivered in. We are happy to offer a full refund or exchange for any reason within 90 days from the ship date.

Where does your Merino wool come from?

All of our Merino wool is sourced from independent, mulesing-free farms that are Woolmark certified.

Is your Merino wool mulesing-free?

We share the same concerns you do and care deeply about the welfare of Merino wool sheep. That is why we only work with independent, mulesing-free farms that are Woolmark certified.

How do I exchange or return an item?

Our return and exchange policy is listed in the Unbound Merino Help Center, which you can access by clicking  this link .

Why doesn’t Unbound Merino clothing smell bad, even if I wear it for days or months at a time?

The extraordinary, natural performance of our Merino wool clothing is quite simple — we let Mother Nature do its thing. Since Merino wool has an innate ability to stay breathable, effectively manage moisture, and prevent odor-causing bacteria, the result is clothing that smells fresh no matter what you put it through.

Here’s a breakdown of how it works:

• Merino wool is light, breathable and temperature-regulating, so you’re less likely to overheat and over perspire.
• Thanks to its natural moisture-wicking abilities, when you do perspire, there is far less sweat collecting and producing odor.
• Every fiber or Merino wool is naturally coated in lanolin, an organic antibacterial and safeguard against mildew, mold and odor.

The result is clothing that stays fresh and scent-free for days, weeks, and even months of wear when correctly cared for. Check out our Ultimate Guide to Merino Wool for an in-depth look at the benefits of this miracle fabric.

How can I ensure that my Unbound Merino clothing lasts a long time?

Take good care of your Unbound Merino clothing and it will last you a long time. Avoid using deodorant or antiperspirant that contains aluminum or alcohol. Over time, the build-up of aluminum or alcohol can cause staining.

When not being worn, hang your clothes in a well-ventilated and preferably open space — the more they air out, the longer they will stay fresh without needing a wash. When you decide it’s time for laundering, please wash your clothing inside out to prevent pilling and follow the specific care instruction symbols on your clothing tag.

Is Merino wool itchy?

This wool isn’t like your typical itchy sweater. It’s superfine, incredibly light and much softer than traditional wool, with some impressive performance properties that make for clothing that keeps you super comfortable at all times.

What is lanolin, and is it natural?

Every fiber of a Merino sheep’s coat has an oily, waxy coating called lanolin. It helps repel water, is a natural barrier against harsh climates, and protects the sheep’s skin from infections. It’s a natural safeguard against mildew, mold, and odor-causing bacteria. Traces of lanolin remain on the wool fiber from shearing to spinning, so our Merino wool clothing gets the same benefits. Check out our Ultimate Guide to Merino Wool for an in-depth look at lanolin and its benefits.

How do I prevent my Merino wool clothing from pilling?

Pilling is a normal and natural process that occurs when the shorter fibers in Merino wool work their way to the surface. To prevent this from happening, we recommend that you wash your clothing after the first 3-4 wears. Should pilling occur, try washing your clothing with a pair of denim jeans (just make sure to close the zippers). Over time, the shorter wool fibers causing the pilling will pull away on their own.

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HOODIE MERINO WOOL MEN TECH TRAVEL Breatheble Natural Strech No Odor Soft Touch Thermal Control Washable Wrinkle Free

Product details, about this item.

• All our jackets and coats incorporate the revolutionary made in Italy Merino Tech fabric, a 100% natural merino wool fabric with properties such as thermoregulation, breathability, moisture regulation, natural stretch, wrinkle free, water and windproof resistance. Through textile engineering processes, maximum quality results are achieved focused on offering technical specifications depending on their use.
• Our patterns are minimalist, clean, geometric and designed to be able to offer versatility and dynamism. In our garments you can find designs that incorporate all kinds of pockets and compartments for essential gadgets such as smartphones, passports, headphones, keys, chargers, pens and documents. With a very urban and avant-garde line concept, our silhouettes take as a reference the concept of tailoring made in Italy fused with the maximum comfort and performance.
• 100% ECO Sustainable. All our Jackets and coats are made of 100% New Zealand merino wool guaranteed by the ZQ certification. We believe in using nature´s performance fabrics to protect our planet, eliminating any synthetic fabrics from our collection, which cause irreversible damages to our environment.
• ZQ Merino is different. It is ethical wool, because it is selected and produced through a sustainable management of environmental, economic and social resources, safeguarding the wellbeing of people and animals. It brings together dedicated experts throughout the supply chain to transform nature's finest Merino fibre into high-end luxury and performance garments.
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MTT Borns to offer a new concept of urban clothing based on quality and comfort, providing a minimalist, elegant and exclusive design. The frenetic pace in big cities, endless work meetings, or improvised business trips are part of the DNA of the society of our time. Our day to day requires versatile and functional clothing that allows us to carry out different activities throughout the day and in all kinds of weather conditions.

Made in Italy Merino

• Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 13.78 x 9.84 x 1.57 inches; 1.1 Pounds
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ J-MFJ-024-Antracite-S
• Department ‏ : ‎ mens
• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ January 12, 2023
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0BS6SKQH8
• #10,413 in Men's Fashion Hoodies & Sweatshirts

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This Hooded Zipped Sweatshirt is made of Italian 100% Merino Tech Wool high-performance fabric which will give you maximum comfort thanks to its breathability, thermal control dynamic regulation and natural stretchiness. Its functional design incorporates side hidden pockets perfect for traveling with essential gadgets such as smart phones, ipads, Eyewear, passports, headphones, keys, chargers, pens and documents.With a very urban and avant-garde line concept, this Hooded Zipped Sweatshirt silhouette take as a reference the concept of tailoring made in Italy fused with the maximum comfort and performance.

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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Eddie Redmayne Says 'Willkommen' to Broadway in First Production Photos from Cabaret Revival (Exclusive)

'The Good Nurse' actor is starring as the Emcee alongside Gayle Rankin as the musical's leading lady Sally Bowles

Marc Brenner

Eddie Redmayne is ready to put on a show in the first photos from Broadway's Cabaret revival !

In PEOPLE's exclusive first look at the famed John Kander and Fred Ebb musical's return to the Great White Way, The Good Nurse actor, 42, suits up at as Kit Kat Klub's mercurial Emcee. With his jaunty green party hat, oversized brown cravat and black gloves, Redmayne is both intriguing and imposing as the fascinating character.

In another snap of the Emcee in action, Redmayne leaps into the air as several members of the cast dance around him during the show's iconic opening number, "Willkommen."

Additional photos from the show shine the spotlight on House of the Dragon actress Gayle Rankin in the role of the vivacious nightclub singer Sally Bowles. In one compelling photo, she seems poised to take the stage with a microphone in hand as she's surrounded by ensemble members during the song, "Mein Herr."

Another picture finds Rankin in a ruffly white dress while holding a prop cigarette as she performs the song "Don’t Tell Mama."

The Cabaret revival is being directed by Rebecca Frecknall, who helmed the West End version, which also starred Redmayne. Previews began April 1 at the August Wilson Theatre in New York City, with the show set to officially open on April 21.

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Cabaret has long been a success both on the stage and screen. Based on John Van Druten’s 1951 play I Am a Camera , which in turn was adapted from the 1939 novel Goodbye to Berlin by Christopher Isherwood, Cabaret first hit Broadway in 1966. It was later turned into the 1972 film of the same name starring Oscar-winner Liza Minnelli .

The musical tells the story of Sally, an ambitious English singer who starts up a relationship with American writer Clifford Bradshaw as he observes the eccentric characters who populate the Kit Kat Klub in Berlin. Set between World War I and World War II, the growing unrest beyond the club's doors is ever-present as the artists within express themselves through song.

It features a score by Kander & Ebb made up of a string of songs that have become musical theatre mainstays, like “Willkommen,” “Don't Tell Mamma,” “Mein Herr,” “Two Ladies,” “Tomorrow Belongs to Me,” “Money,” “Maybe This Time” and, of course, “Cabaret.”

Redmayne, who also produces the Broadway revival, has long said that  Cabaret “ properly ignited” his love for theater, while playing the Emcee in a student production of the musical over 25 years ago.

In an October 2023 statement, he shared, "It now feels completely thrilling and a little surreal to be a part of Rebecca's truly unique vision of Masteroff, Kander, and Ebb's brilliance as it arrives on Broadway, where the piece has such a history."

In addition to Redmayne and Rankin, the rest of the principle cast is rounded out by Ato Blankson-Wood (Clifford), Steven Skybell (Herr) and Tony winner Bebe Neuwirth (Fräulein), as well as Natascia Diaz (Fraulein Kost and Fritzie); and Henry Gottfried (Ernst Ludwig).

The cast also includes, Gabi Campo (Frenchie), Ayla Ciccone-Burton (Helga), Colin Cunliffe (Hans), Loren Lester (Herman/Max), David Merino (Lulu), Julian Ramos (Bobby), MiMi Scardulla (Texas), Paige Smallwood as Rosie, and Marty Lauter (Victor) — also known as Marcia Marcia Marcia of RuPaul's Drag Race fame.

Tickets for Cabaret are on sale now.

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Rosatom Starts Production of Rare-Earth Magnets for Wind Power Generation

TVEL Fuel Company of Rosatom has started gradual localization of rare-earth magnets manufacturing for wind power plants generators. The first sets of magnets have been manufactured and shipped to the customer.

In total, the contract between Elemash Magnit LLC (an enterprise of TVEL Fuel Company of Rosatom in Elektrostal, Moscow region) and Red Wind B.V. (a joint venture of NovaWind JSC and the Dutch company Lagerwey) foresees manufacturing and supply over 200 sets of magnets. One set is designed to produce one power generator.

“The project includes gradual localization of magnets manufacturing in Russia, decreasing dependence on imports. We consider production of magnets as a promising sector for TVEL’s metallurgical business development. In this regard, our company does have the relevant research and technological expertise for creation of Russia’s first large-scale full cycle production of permanent rare-earth magnets,” commented Natalia Nikipelova, President of TVEL JSC.

“NovaWind, as the nuclear industry integrator for wind power projects, not only made-up an efficient supply chain, but also contributed to the development of inter-divisional cooperation and new expertise of Rosatom enterprises. TVEL has mastered a unique technology for the production of magnets for wind turbine generators. These technologies will be undoubtedly in demand in other areas as well,” noted Alexander Korchagin, Director General of NovaWind JSC.

For reference:

TVEL Fuel Company of Rosatom incorporates enterprises for the fabrication of nuclear fuel, conversion and enrichment of uranium, production of gas centrifuges, as well as research and design organizations. It is the only supplier of nuclear fuel for Russian nuclear power plants. TVEL Fuel Company of Rosatom provides nuclear fuel for 73 power reactors in 13 countries worldwide, research reactors in eight countries, as well as transport reactors of the Russian nuclear fleet. Every sixth power reactor in the world operates on fuel manufactured by TVEL. www.tvel.ru

NovaWind JSC is a division of Rosatom; its primary objective is to consolidate the State Corporation's efforts in advanced segments and technological platforms of the electric power sector. The company was founded in 2017. NovaWind consolidates all of the Rosatom’s wind energy assets – from design and construction to power engineering and operation of wind farms.

Overall, by 2023, enterprises operating under the management of NovaWind JSC, will install 1 GW of wind farms. http://novawind.ru

Elemash Magnit LLC is a subsidiary of Kovrov Mechanical Plant (an enterprise of the TVEL Fuel Company of Rosatom) and its main supplier of magnets for production of gas centrifuges. The company also produces magnets for other industries, in particular, for the automotive

industry. The production facilities of Elemash Magnit LLC are located in the city of Elektrostal, Moscow Region, at the site of Elemash Machine-Building Plant (a nuclear fuel fabrication facility of TVEL Fuel Company).

Rosatom is a global actor on the world’s nuclear technology market. Its leading edge stems from a number of competitive strengths, one of which is assets and competences at hand in all nuclear segments. Rosatom incorporates companies from all stages of the technological chain, such as uranium mining and enrichment, nuclear fuel fabrication, equipment manufacture and engineering, operation of nuclear power plants, and management of spent nuclear fuel and nuclear waste. Nowadays, Rosatom brings together about 350 enterprises and organizations with the workforce above 250 K. https://rosatom.ru/en/

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